Total revenue Europe-wide was £103.5M , compared to £172.4M for first quarter 2008, with pre-tax profit up from £11.5M to £12M.

Commenting on the results, Sylvo Thijsen, CEO Grontmij N.V., said:

"Our public-related market sectors remain robust: transportation, water, energy and environment are winning new orders and recruiting additional staff. In some countries we are also experiencing a positive impact from the governmental stimulus packages.

“However, the private sector parts of the building and industry markets, as well as the real estate market, are deteriorating, leading to postponement or cancellation of orders. As a result, competition, pressure on growth and price increases make 2009 an even more challenging year.

“In response to the different market conditions impacting different parts of our business, we are focusing on expanding where conditions are favourable, benefiting from closeness to the market, longstanding good customer relationships and an increased demand for sustainable and climate-related solutions.”

New contracts won by Grontmij in the UK water sector in 2009 include been the award and/or extension of £50M worth of framework contracts by Scottish Water, Severn Trent Water, Anglian Water and United Utilities.