AGM Statement
August 28 2003 - 9:01AM
UK Regulatory
RNS Number:1282P
Stoddard International PLC
28 August 2003
28 August 2003
At today's annual general meeting Alan Scott, chairman of Stoddard International
PLC will make the following statement.
"My statement in the 2002 annual report explained the conditions confronting the
company as it competes in a particularly tough market while undertaking a major
restructuring exercise.
The very major relocation of the entire business over the last 18 months to one
site in Kilmarnock will be completed by the year-end. The significant
efficiencies of this will represent a major element of the company's recovery
strategy.
Throughout 2003 trading has been difficult in all markets. Inevitably there has
been short-term operational disruption during this transitional period that has
affected our business however the worst of this is now behind us.
The property disposal programme is progressing well with outline planning
consent for residential development being granted in June for the major part of
the Elderslie site. We expect to complete the disposal of the Mill St site to
Safeway by the end of this year. The proceeds from surplus properties will
substantially reduce our debt burden."
Enquiries
Alan Scott, chairman
Alan Lawson, chief executive
01505 577000
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
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