Acal plc announced net debt results for the period from October 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016. The company's net debt as at 31 December 2016 was £41.1 million with a group gearing ratio of 1.9 times, in line with the position as reported at the half year ended 30 September 2016.

The company provided group earnings guidance for the period from October 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016. Trading in the third quarter was in line with management expectations. Group sales increased by 21% and by 5% CER, with orders up 4% CER. As expected, organic sales for the quarter improved, being flat with last year compared with a 7% decline in the first half. The group remains on track to deliver positive organic growth in the final quarter. Gross margins remain firm and ahead of last year, and operating costs continue to be tightly managed. The company maintains its earnings forecast for the full year.