The performance of the group, whose brands operate in 20 countries worldwide, was boosted by strong profit growth in Japan, Chile and parts of the UK business. The company said the results reflected the successful integration of Rishworth Aviation and ConSol Partners, companies in which it invested in 2016.

CEO Joost Kreulen said: “Our diversification by geography and sector places the group in a strong position to withstand localised market issues. The group remains focused on delivering our strategy: strengthening a multi-branded group, with a focus on developing leading brands that are diversified and balanced by geography and sector.

“The group has a strong platform in place from which to launch the next phase of its growth and we see good opportunities to support the profitable growth of our brands in the year ahead.”

Chairman Tony Martin added: “The economic conditions are positive and whilst we maintain a cautious view on political risk, we see good opportunities to develop our group further during the year ahead.”

The company said its main focus in 2018 would be on organic growth, although it had “a particular interest in increasing our presence in the Latin American region, and the healthcare and professional services sectors”.

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