McBride PLC (LON:MCB) told investors that the surge in demand seen in March, as countries entered lockdown, has moderated but remain above the ‘run rate level’ seen before then.
The domestic and professional cleaning products manufacturer added that the higher demand levels are evident in most major markets, mainly for surface cleaning and dishwashing products. Its aerosols business has been boosted by sales of new hand sanitiser products.
Manufacturing has returned to a ‘more normal’ level of activity after early challenges around staff shortages, availability of materials and distribution problems.
McBride added that, as expected, it has seen lower input pricing albeit some benefits have been offset by one-off COVID-19 related costs.
The company expects full year adjusted pre-tax profit will be 15% ahead of market expectations, while net debt will be lower than expected.
A year-end trading statement is due on 14 July and full-year results are scheduled for 8 September.