Plimsoll's latest report covers UK and French businesses and is a 'statistical dream' says Plimsoll financial analyst David Pattison. 'In the 15 years we have been doing this it is rare to have such good information as we have on the French market showing it is such a good place to be for UK companies.' The Plimsoll report compares UK and French fresh produce firms with the French coming out on top. On average, the businesses across the English Channel are stronger financially with less debt. And the market is expanding faster with sales growth 6.8 per cent: a full 3.8 percentage points ahead of the UK.

'UK companies have been forced to finance capital losses and fight the competition,' said Pattison. 'Whereas the French market is booming, levels of debt are well below that of a UK company and the level of profitability is excellent.' Plimsoll's analysis carries financial profiles of each of the top 500 fresh produce companies and full contact details. It is aimed at those looking to make acquisitions and partnerships as well as seal potential export deals.

Its publication comes the same week that UK prepared salads specialist Geest announced the acquisition of a third French site, this time to supply the French market. 'The bigger companies are ahead of the rest possibly because they have better information,' said Pattison. 'We are saying 'why don't we all share their information?'' More information from www.plimsoll.co.uk

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