29 July 2015

Pre-Close Trading Statement

James Halstead plc, the commercial flooring manufacturer and distributor, is providing the following trading update ahead of its final results for the year to 30 June 2015.

In the Chairman's statement announced on 31 March 2015, it was reported that the first half year turnover was 5.7% ahead of the prior year comparative but that there were challenges for the second half with the strength of Sterling. Notwithstanding headwinds the Chairman expressed confidence of progress.

Trading through 30 June 2015 has been solid and profit before tax will be ahead of last year, in line with market expectations and at the highest level in the Company's history.

AIM celebrates its 20^th year and, after 54 years on the main market, James Halstead plc joined the AIM in 2002 with a market capitalisation of £70 million and a share price of 32 pence. In this, the 100^th year of manufacturing in Radcliffe and with healthy cash reserves we are confident that our full year dividend will be another record marking our 40^th year of increased dividend.