A RADCLIFFE firm whose flooring has been installed in the world’s largest cruise liner is buoyant after returning record financial results.

James Halstead plc has seen a sharp rise in its revenue and pre-tax profits reflected in its interim results for the half year ending December 31, 2009.

Mr Geoffrey Halstead, chairman of the commercial floor covering manufacturers and distributors, said: “There is no doubt that we have charted a successful route in the most difficult of times.”

Over the last few months, Halstead’s flooring has been installed in the Oasis of the Seas, a liner five times the size of the Titanic.

The firm’s products also grace the Emirates Marquee at the Melbourne Spring Racing carnival and several large hospitals in Queensland, Saudi Arabia, India, Armenia and the UK.

Results announced by the Hollinhurst Road firm disclose that revenue has risen 6.3 per cent to a record £92.1 million. Operating profits are up to a record £16.6 million, a rise of 10.1 per cent, while pre-tax profits soared by 10.2 per cent to a record £16.9 million. Mr Halstead said: “The majority of the sales growth was derived from our flooring activities, though I would note that Phoenix Distribution, our motorcycle accessories subsidiary, increased sales by 5.3 per cent in difficult retail conditions.

“There has been a 3.2 per cent decline in our revenue in the UK and a corresponding 13.5 per cent increase in overseas revenue.

“Looking at our principal markets there has been good growth: Germany up 9.5 per cent, Australia up 6.7 per cent and New Zealand up two per cent. We have an increasing presence in global markets, an improved product offering and continued focus on customer service.

“Notwithstanding that, it is clear that our UK market is still fragile. I have no doubt that we will continue to forge ahead through our second half.”

Earlier this year James Halstead plc, which has a major manufacturing plant in Radcliffe New Road, Whitefield, announced a £4 million investment to help meet demand for its award-winning safety flooring product.