UK Small Caps

LONDON (ShareCast) - Driver, which provides specialist commercial and dispute resolution services to the construction industry, said it expects first half pre-tax profits to remain broadly in line with last year's results after experiencing challenging trading.

The firm highlighted the tough environment earlier this month, but said it remained well placed to achieve further growth.

However, in its latest update, the firm said its overall performance would be adversely affected by the settlement of a litigation contract in Oman, a reduction in commercial building in the northern region of the UK and fewer litigation contracts in London. The rise in sterling is also impacting profitability, the firm said.

"Despite these short term challenges, the Board continues to see opportunities to grow the business significantly over the longer term, particularly in the Middle East, London and the wider international market," Driver said.