Travis Perkins sees result ahead of forecasts

LONDON (MarketWatch) — Building materials supply firm Travis Perkins said Friday that it now expects to report first-half results ahead of management expectations. Revenue for the six months to June 30 rose 4.7% with comparable sales up 3.4%. “Given our pleasing trading performance in the first half we now anticipate recommencing the payment of dividends,” the firm said. It intends to declare an interim dividend of 5 pence per share. “Current trading continues to be ahead of management expectations,” the firm said.