**Summary**
Empresaria Group PLC, an international specialist staffing group, released a trading update for the financial year ended 31 December 2025, ahead of its full-year results announcement on 24 April 2026. Despite challenging market conditions, the company expects its adjusted profit before tax (PBT) to be slightly ahead of market expectations. Key highlights include
1. **Financial Performance**
Net fee income remained unchanged on a constant currency like-for-like (CC LFL) basis, though reported figures decreased by 6% to £47.3 million.
Strong growth in Offshore Services (16% CC LFL) and the US (23% CC LFL), offset by declines in other regions.
Temporary and contract net fee income fell by 4% CC LFL, while permanent placements saw a 9% reduction.
2. **Regional Breakdown**
UK net fee income declined by 11% to £3.9 million.
US net fee income grew by 17% (23% CC LFL) to £2.7 million.
Offshore Services increased by 9% (16% CC LFL) to £13.8 million.
Non-Core operations (previously earmarked for disposal) saw an 8% CC LFL decline.
3. **Financing**
Net debt (excluding lease liabilities) rose to £17.1 million, in line with expectations.
Headroom of £5.4 million was maintained at year-end.
No final dividend will be recommended due to the challenging trading environment and increased debt.
4. **Management Commentary**
Chair Joost Kreulen acknowledged persistent market challenges but expressed satisfaction with the adjusted PBT performance. He highlighted progress in stabilizing financial control and operations, emphasizing the Group’s commitment to positioning itself for future market recovery.
The update underscores Empresaria’s resilience in a difficult trading environment, with strategic focus on operational stability and readiness for market improvement.