Salford-based SPD reports profit growth following London expansion

Salford Professional Development (SPD), the Greater Manchester-based conference and training provider, has reported half-year revenue and profit growth after expanding into new regions and sectors in 2015.

The firm, which is a University of Salford subsidiary, saw its turnover increase year on year by 56% to reach £1.7m in the six months to January 31.

During the same period, the company’s pre-tax profits reached £311k, an increase of 7%. Marc Davis, SPD’s chief executive, said the firm’s profit growth slowed due to the development of a new executive learning portal and expansion into the London events scene.

The firm has also invested in its staff base, recruiting eight new employees during the six-month period to bring its total workforce to 43.

Discussing SPD’s prospects, Marc said the company is on track to hit a full-year revenue of £3.6m, compared to £2.76m the year previous, and profits of £750k before tax, up from £583.5k.

Marc commented: “We continue to expand our range of conferences and courses, exploring developing and emerging subject areas.

“The second half promises to be outstanding, with our new executive learning portal set to be a highlight.”

He added: “This will enable people to learn the theory behind a particular course through an online segment, with the option to attend a subsequent classroom-based session or to buy further modules.”

The new portal, Marc said, will give SPD “a real edge” in the training and events market.

He continued: “We plan to capitalise further on the expertise at the university to continue to offer market-leading events.

“Alongside this expertise, we have a keen and motivated workforce who work tirelessly to ensure the company goes from strength to strength.”

SPD achieved a record monthly revenue in February, taking in just over £500k. During the month, the company held its biggest ever conference, the Future of Academies event staged at Salford’s AJ Bell Stadium.

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