Laser-Scan Holdings Plc, the Cambridge, UK-based manufacturer of the Gothic geographical information system has turned the corner in 1996 and its five-year development program has finally born fruit. Laser-Scan has made net profits for the year to December 31 of 190,000 pounds compared to losses in 1995 of 274,000 pounds. Revenues rose 8.0% to 7.9m pounds on the back of some substantial new orders. As well as selling enhancements to all its existing UK mapping agency clients (Ordnance Survey being the biggest) the company broke new ground with sales to Spanish and South African government departments as well as the Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration in the US. Laser-Scan has a sturdy balance sheet with sufficient cash resources to pursue its twin objectives of continuing product development and improving its market profile. The directors do not propose a dividend. The shares were unchanged at 29.5 pence.
