Dear friends

As we again approach the holiday season I reflect on what has been a challenging yet rewarding year. While 2024 hasn’t tested us quite like the Covid era, it brought its own set of complexities. Following the remarkable successes of 2023, we approached this year with optimism tempered by caution, a strategy that proved wise. As is so often the case, external factors impacted on the industry, including global conflicts and key elections, we were not immune.

Nonetheless my favoured phrase at the moment is “context”; despite a relative dip in sales, this year has been our second best ever, a testament not only to all our dedicated staff to whom I offer my thanks, but also to our resilience and strategic planning.

We fulfilled the commitments made this time last year, launching two new exciting product lines, attending OTC in Houston, expanded our European sales channels and signed a key agreement to establish a presence in the Middle East.

It is without doubt that we are nothing without you, our customers; we maintain our long tradition of designing and supplying the highest quality products with stunning return on investment. Rarely the cheapest but definitely the least expensive, I thank you for your loyalty and support.

Slightly closer to home, during this year I have adopted a deliberate strategy of delegating day to day control of the business to our capable Management Team. This has worked very well, enabling me to return to the CEO role first attempted pre Covid. This does allow me to focus more on strategy and, rather selfishly, work fewer hours. Early days, but so far so good.

As I look ahead, I am optimistic about our opportunities for 2025, at the same time hoping for a speedy resolution to the numerous conflicts that surround us all. I wish you and your families good health, a peaceful holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

Regards

Howard