'Disappointing' Q4 for BrainJuicer

Trading in the final months of 2012 is proving 'disappointing' for online specialist BrainJuicer, according to the firm's interim statement issued earlier today. Revenue during the last quarter is likely to fall 'significantly below' 2011 levels.

Despite income for the ten months to the end of October climbing 11% over the prior year period, the company said that the seasonal increase it has previously experienced during the final two months of its financial year, 'is not occurring' in 2012. Therefore, pre-tax profits for the full year are expected to be 'substantially below' the £2.8m achieved in 2011.

During the first half of the year, BrainJuicer saw costs increase by 12% as it strengthened its teams, broadened its geographical coverage, and invested in product innovation. The company says its businesses in China and Brazil are both delivering growth ahead of expectations, while Switzerland is having 'another good year', but 2012 profitability has been 'disappointing' in the UK, Germany and the US, and pending a 'pick up' in revenue growth the company has put a block on new recruitment in these markets.

In its statement, BrainJuicer said current shortfall in revenue reflects a 22% decline in sales of its 'Twist' products, while revenue from its 'Juicy' products has continued to 'grow strongly' - up by 39%.

The company says its products remain 'at the forefront' of the trend towards new ways of making decisions and it remains convinced of its long term growth potential.

Web site: www.brainjuicer.com .