Slingsby reports challenging times

Slingsby, which is based in Baildon, near Bradford, West Yorkshire, makes and distributes 35,000 workplace products through its catalogue and website

In a trading update, the company said: “The factors underpinning the board’s cautious view of the economic environment, as referred to in the company’s April 21 2011 final results announcement, continue to prevail.

“A marked slowdown in activity levels meant that trading conditions during late April and May were very challenging, with June showing no signs of improvement. Given the lack of visibility over any recovery in demand, the directors now expect that trading for the full year will be below the board’s previous expectations.

“In light of Slingsby’s diverse customer base, wide product selection and strong balance sheet, the board does, however, remain confident of the company’s ability to withstand these difficult conditions as well as its long-term prospects. The company’s interim results for the six months ending 30 June 2011 will be released in September 2011.”

The firm’s clients range from small businesses to major corporates as well as the NHS.

The group’s origins go back to 1893, when Harry Crowther Slingsby obtained his first orders for trucks.