Aerospace and defense demand drove Bodycote’s first-half results, offsetting automotive weakness and supporting margin expansion.
Bodycote reported 9.6% organic revenue growth in the first half, led by aerospace, defense, and industrial gas turbines, while automotive demand remained weak. Core operating profit rose 11% to £60.4 million, with a 30 basis point margin increase to 16.2%.
Group revenue climbed 6.5% organically to £381.2 million, and operating profit reached £61 million, up 110 basis points in margin terms. Adjusted earnings per share grew 18.3% to 25.2 pence, and the interim dividend was raised 4%.
Aerospace and defense revenue surged nearly 25%, with Specialist Technologies division growth hitting 37%. The company reaffirmed full-year expectations, citing strong demand and renewed customer agreements.