Dignity says outlook for funerals remains positive

Listed funeral services provider Dignity today reported a rise in sales and profits for the first nine months of the year and said it remained upbeat about its prospects.

The firm, which has its roots in Glasgow, said underlying operating profits for the 39 weeks to 27 September grew 12.7 per cent to £60.2 million, on revenues 12.5 per cent higher at £190.6m.

Chief executive Mike McCollum said growth in operating profits had been slower than the first half of the year, because the number of deaths had fallen compared with a year ago, whereas the first half had seen an increase in the mortality rate.

However, he said trading since the start of the fourth quarter has been in line with management expectations, adding: “Our outlook remains positive and our expectations for the remainder of this year and 2014 are unchanged.”