Hyder Consulting PLC, the multi-national design and engineering consultancy, today provides an update on trading in advance of its half year results for the six months to 30 September 2012, which we expect to announce on 21 November 2012.


Trading performance

The Group's first half pre-tax profit is now expected to be well ahead of our previous expectations, due to the timing of performance bonuses earned in Australia. The effective tax rate will increase as a consequence.

Overall, the Asia Pacific region will be ahead of plan and Australia has again performed strongly benefiting from the award of better than anticipated performance bonuses. This has been partially offset by contract delays and investments in China where we expect to incur a small loss in the first half. Recent new project awards should improve results there in the second half.

Middle East results are in line with plan and well ahead of the first half last year.

UK market conditions continue to be challenging, particularly in the highways sector, and results for the year are likely to be below our initial expectations.


Financial position

The Group is in a strong financial position, with net cash balances at the half year expected to be substantially higher than at 30 September 2011.

Outlook

The Group's strong first half performance, favourable market positioning and diversified geographic base give us confidence for the full year outcome.

Enquiries:

Hyder Consulting PLC
Russell Down, Group Finance Director Tel: 020 3014 9000


Citigate Dewe Rogerson
Ginny Pulbrook Tel: 020 7282 2945

Notes:

1.  About Hyder Consulting: Hyder Consulting is a multi-national design and engineering consultancy operating in Asia, Australia, the Middle East, Germany and the UK. We employ approximately 4,000 people and apply our global expertise coupled with local knowledge to create award winning solutions for the transport, property, utilities and environment sectors.

2.  This announcement is based on information obtained from unaudited management accounts.

3.  This announcement contains certain forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and businesses of Hyder Consulting PLC. These statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend upon circumstances that will occur in the future. There are a number of factors that could cause actual results or developments to differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements. Nothing in this announcement should be construed as a profit forecast.

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