Computacenter plc (LON:CCC) said there has been “a surge in demand” for laptop computers as it works with businesses on continuity plans that require staff to work from home.
With the company having flagged its "best ever" year in January, chief executive Mike Norris said the coronavirus pandemic was making it more difficult to provide guidance on the outlook for 2020.
While there has been “minimal” constrains from technology manufacturer suppliers so far, Norris said: “We do however have some concerns that in the medium-term, customers may postpone significant IT infrastructure projects while the current uncertainty remains.”
“In the longer term, we feel more certain, either because when this crisis is behind us, life will return to normal and the fundamental business drivers for IT growth remain or, if there is a long-term reduction in business travel and commuting with a consequent upsurge in remote working, it can only drive the need for technology even further.”
Adjusted profit before tax for 2019 was up 24% to £146.3mln and statutory PBT rose 30% to £141mln on revenues up 16% to £5.05bn. The dividend was hiked 22% to 37p per share.
For 2020 the consensus forecast is for underlying PBT of £147mln.