UK Carpet Firm Victoria Goes Commercial

Kidderminster, UK, June 18, 2009--Kidderminster-based carpet-maker Victoria has has moved into the commercial sector.

The move to diversify was a strategic decision that had already helped to buffer the company against the downturn in the housing market, chief executive Allan Bullock said.

Investment in the contract commercial flooring sector, including the recruitment of personnel, had delivered sales growth of 62 percent, albeit from a low level, helped by a contract from Hilton International Hotels, the company said.

The company, which employs about 200 people at its UK manufacturing site in Kidderminster, announced a 58.3 percent cut in profit before tax.

Victoria chairman Alexander Anton said in its results statement: “Re-visiting my statement in last year’s report, no one would have believed that the world’s trade and economic landscape would be where it is today.”