**Summary**
Gattaca plc, a specialist staffing solutions company, released a trading update for the six months ended 31 January 2026 (H1 26), reporting strong performance ahead of expectations. Key highlights include
1. **Financial Performance**
Total Group Net Fee Income (NFI) is expected to be £21.2m, with a 7% year-on-year (YoY) like-for-like (LFL) increase to £20.2m, driven by strong contract performance in core growth sectors.
LFL contract NFI grew by 13% YoY, while permanent fees remained stable with a 2% LFL increase.
Statement of Work (SoW) NFI declined due to timing delays in major client programs.
2. **Operational Efficiency**
Sales headcount reduced by 6% YoY, reflecting continued focus on operational efficiency and disciplined resource allocation.
Statutory net cash as of 31 January 2026 is £13.0m, down from £16.8m in the previous year, due to working capital absorption, the InfoSec acquisition, and final dividend payments.
3. **Acquisition and Integration**
The InfoSec acquisition, completed in August 2025 for £2.1m, has enhanced the Groups cyber capability and contributed positively to contract momentum.
4. **Outlook**
Group guidance for FY26 adjusted profit before tax is expected to be £4.5m.
The Group aims to invest in identified markets, grow sales headcount by 10%, and announce an interim dividend at its Interim Results.
5. **Management Commentary**
CEO Matthew Wragg expressed confidence in the Groups ability to deliver sustainable growth, citing strengthened technology, a growing customer base, and improved operational efficiency.
6. **Interim Results**
Gattaca will announce its H1 26 results on 24 March 2026.
Overall, Gattaca demonstrated resilience and growth in H1 26, despite challenges in specific areas, and remains focused on strategic investments and operational improvements for future growth.