Business news in brief: ARR Craib | Remy Cointreau | Mothercare

Published on 19/10/2012 00:00

ARR Craib Transport boosted its turnover by 9 per cent to almost £39 million last year, despite the tough trading conditions.

The Aberdeen firm benefited from the sustained buoyancy of the oil service sector in the North-east of Scotland, enabling the company to increase its market share over the last year.

Pre-tax profit rose from £873,117 to £1.36m in the year to the end of March, achieved as a result of a major programme of cost control and efficiency improvements.

Asia weighs on cognac sales

French drinks group Remy Cointreau reported a sharp slowdown in sales growth in the past three months, saying Asian wholesalers were holding back on new cognac orders.

However, the maker of Remy Martin cognac, Cointreau liqueur and Mount Gay rum said that, while demand in Europe lagged, the appetite for its most expensive brandies remained robust in Asia and the US, as it confirmed its goal for a significant improvement in

full-year earnings.

Mothercare enjoys growing gains

Mothercare surprised investors as its Jools Oliver and value ranges helped the parenting retailer return to sales growth in the UK.

After slumping into the red by £103 million and losing its chief executive following poor sales, Mothercare brought in new boss Simon Calver to lead a turnaround involving store closures and a revamp of its website.

The group operates 203 Mothercare and 77 Early Learning Centres.