Norbert Dentressangle’s logistics business saw a 4% increase in turnover during the first half of this year, with growth in the division likely to continue in the second half.

The firm’s first half results, which were published today (1 August), revealed that turnover in the division grew to €897m (£781m) in the first six months of 2013, up from €862m (£768m) during the same period last year. It put the growth down to sales performance in its major markets in the UK, France, Italy and the Netherlands.

Hervé Montjotin, ND CEO, said: “Logistics is maintaining solid growth with a good level of profitability that is allowing us to expand the business outside of Europe.”

Despite this, turnover in its transport division was down 3% to €1.01bn (£880m), compared to €1.04bn (£907m) in the same period last year, due to poor performance in its full-load transport activities, especially in France.

Group turnover, for which Britain is the second biggest contributor, decreased marginally to €1.93bn (£1.68bn), while EBITDA slipped 5% to €112.1m (£97.6m).

A spokeswoman said ND's UK business accounted for €580m (£506m) of its group turnover and 30% of total sales.

Montjotin said: “Based on current market conditions, the seasonal nature of the Group’s results, with a second half-year traditionally stronger than the first, and out solid foundations, we remain confident about our prospects.”

ND recently opened its 1.5-acre DC in Taunton, Somerset.

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