Building a robust platform for growth - FY24 pre-close statement

Against a tough trading background in FY24, Speedy Hire has taken steps to build a platform for long term sustainable growth through the launch of its Velocity strategy. While progress has been more strategic than financial in the year – although we note positive underlying cash flow was achieved - new business wins, the acquisition of Green Power Hire and a transitioned B&Q model all suggest that profitability is likely to move ahead again from FY25 onwards.

Speedy’s FY24 pre close statement echoed January’s trading update, pointing to successful new business wins with National customers but also some mobilisation and adverse seasonal effects. Stated group revenue of c.£420m infers that H2 was slightly ahead of H124’s reported £208.5m. While closing year earnings expectations are likely to nudge down further, the prospect of year-on-year progress from FY25 onwards appears to be intact.

The launch of Speedy’s Velocity strategy in FY24 laid out clear group financial (FY28 revenue of £650m, EBITDA margin 28% with conservative gearing metrics) and operational ambitions (to deliver sustainable growth from an efficient digital and data-driven platform). The primary enabling actions are expected to be in place by the end of FY26, though there is clear capacity to accommodate an earnings recovery and growth beginning in FY25.

Notwithstanding market conditions, the company has taken clear strides in FY24 towards achieving its five-year targets, investing accordingly.