William Ransom announces trading update

William Ransom has announced a trading update following its announcement of a strategy last month.

The company has opted to simplify its business and increase its focus on branded natural consumer healthcare products which have a higher margin.

It said it would concentrate on a portfolio with an emphasis on the naturalness as well as the scientific basis of its products.

Consequently, it will sell various brands not consistent with this strategy and its contract manufacturing business in Witham, Essex.

Ivor Harrison, chief executive of the company, said: “The completion of our strategic review has provided the business with a focused plan for recovery.”

He added the implementation of the turn-around plan would result in a successful repositioning of the business, notwithstanding its difficulties in stabilising its UK business.

William Ransom purports to the oldest independent pharmaceutical company in the UK, being founded in 1846 in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.