Blackburn-based toilet roll and tissue maker Accrol Group said its revenue edged 1.4% higher to £136.6 million in the year to April 30, 2021, but loss before tax widened to £2.6 million from £1.9 million.

Dividend payments have been restored with a proposed final dividend of 0.5p.

On current trading and outlook, executive chairman Dan Wright said: “With our market share at 15.9% and the management team’s ability to deliver strong returns, Accrol is increasingly well positioned to benefit in a value-conscious world, post-pandemic, and to capitalise on the recovery in tissue volumes and improving Discounter sales.

“The board’s confidence is demonstrated by the group’s return to dividend payments and the directors remains very positive about the group’s strategy, markets and prospects, both in FY22 and beyond.”

Wright added: “This is the third straight year of strong improvements across many aspects of the business.

“Gross margins have improved again, and the business is even better placed to take advantage of the planned growth of the discounters.

“Whilst there may yet be some further short-term fluctuations in demand, as the effects of the pandemic unwind, I am more excited for the future of this business than ever.

“The growth opportunities for the group over the next two years remain very strong.”