Avon claims "record" start to 2026, on track to meet full-year guidance
The British manufacturer of CBRN protective equipment, Avon Technologies, claimed a "record" start to 2026 ahead of its annual general meeting on Friday, 30 January.
A press release from the group read that Avon Protection "has continued its positive momentum with a record start to the year supported by sustained demand for our CBRN protection products, good operational gearing and a healthy order book and sales pipeline".
Meanwhile, Team Wendy - a global supplier of helmet systems for defence, law enforcement, search and rescue, and adventure sports - "maintains a strong order book but saw a slower first quarter", according the release.
Avon Technologies cited the US government shutdown as being the reason for delayed product testing and deliveries, which contributed to lower than expected Department of War and federal revenue in Q1. Margin was also reduced by the planned increase in investment ahead of ramping production rates in Q2.
"At the group level, we continue to anticipate full year performance consistent with the guidance provided at FY25 results in November, underpinned by continued robust demand for the group’s protective technologies," the statement added.
"Investing across key programmes and new products"
Avon's CEO Jos Sclater commented: "The first phase of our strategy to enhance operational performance through continuous improvement continues to deliver a stronger, more sustainable business. While there is still a lot to do to improve operational efficiency and productivity in our Cleveland facility, the momentum and capability we have built in our people is clear, we are making progress.
"Having stabilised, strengthened and transformed Avon over the last three years, 2026 will see an increased focus on the growth stage of our strategy. We are investing across key programmes and new products that will strengthen our competitive position and expand our addressable markets. We are already seeing some promising early results.
"We remain on track to meet or exceed our FY26 financial targets and look forward to sharing the next phase of our strategic development alongside our interim and full year results."
