James Kemball takes Covid hit but profits on the up

James Kemball said it was now trading profitably after the pandemic significantly impacted its business.

Latest financial results for the Felixstowe container haulier for the 15 months ending 30 June 2020, showed that turnover fell by almost a fifth compared to the previous year, to £17.9m.

The company recorded a pre-tax loss of £1.3m, but this was an improvement on the £4m loss in 2019 and £7.7m in 2018.

In a review of its business, James Kemball said: “The pandemic has had a significant impact on business globally and a rapid response was required to overcome adversity.

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• Profit at James Kemball hits rocky patch after container transport market takes a dive

“Turnover is down compared to the previous financial period, however profits have increased and this together with a reduction in administration expenses has enabled a substantial improvement in the operating result for the period.

“This trend has continued into the new financial year and the company is now trading profitably monthly.”

It added that Covid-19 remained a major global issue and is causing disruption to all supply chains, but that it was “well prepared and we are recognised for our exceptional and unique solutions".

“Profits have increased as we attract new business from commercial and government clients with significant volumes due to the market struggling to provide solutions.”

The company operates a fleet of more than 200 HGVs out of depots in Felixstowe, Tilbury, Ipswich and Southampton.