Capital & Regional, Marshalls and John Laing

“Blue-chips opened on the front foot following on from the positive performances on Wall Street and in Asian markets. Traders are awaiting UK and German trade balance figures with UK and US inflation expectation data, among other economic news,” says AJ Bell Investment Director Russ Mould.

“The collapse of BHS left a huge hole on the high street but the gaps are beginning to be filled. Capital & Regional has completed two long-term leases on former BHS stores in Blackburn and Walthamstow, which is becoming one of London's most vibrant neighbourhoods.  The lettings underline the rapid progress Capital & Regional is making in re-letting the BHS space, growing income from previous levels while further improving its tenant mix and leisure offer. Capital & Regional is also making good progress in talks with national retailers over former BHS units in Maidstone and Redditch.

“Landscape products group Marshalls is confident of meeting full-year forecasts. Sales in the domestic market, which account for nearly a third of the total, were up by 10% in the 11 months to the end of November and the group has made good progress on the growth initiatives set out in the 2020 strategy. The group continues to identify and monitor bolt-on acquisitions but these will only be made if they meet its robust appraisal criteria.

“Infrastructure projects group John Laing’s investment portfolio is performing in line with forecasts and activity has remained strong in each of its three geographical regions, Asia Pacific, North America and Europe, including the UK. The group continues to focus on its core business of greenfield infrastructure, including investments in new projects, active management of its existing portfolio and realisation of several mature assets as it positions itself to take advantage of a growing number of new infrastructure projects.”

These articles are for information purposes only and are not a personal recommendation or advice.