The 6PM Group reported a profit before tax of £413,199 for the first six months of this year, up seven per cent over last year.

The group pointed out that there was a loss taken from one of the subsidiaries due to an increase in shareholding. If this were to be excluded, the increase in the first six months would have amounted to 20 per cent.

However, in line with the current policy up to now, the directors did not recommend the payment of an interim dividend.

Apart from keeping up with the investment momentum of its core products, 6PM also continued researching other avenues to capitalise on its strong knowledge within the health industry, with more expected to go-to-market by the end of the year.

The strategy is coupled with a plan to reduce costs considerably through the elimination of third parties.

Although there was a slight decrease in the turnover, the associated costs decreased considerably, resulting in an increase in gross profit when compared to the same six months of the previous year, with the directors saying this level should be maintained over the next period.

During the period, the group embarked on substantial extra-operational projects, expected to reap rewards during the current year, including the issue of €13 million bonds for a 10-year period, part of which were used to acquire Blithe Computer Systems

The Board is reconsidering the company structure of the group and certain non-core activities are being consolidated to ensure sufficient focus can be exercised.

In terms of associates, the group decided to focus on emCare360 Ltd and Javali LLC in the US, also with more participation through the formation of a European branch.