Shares of Gateshead-based Vertu Motors plc rose about 7% on Thursday after it published a strong trading update and an upgrade to its full year outlook.

Vertu’s shares have soared more than 100% over the past 12 months to give the firm a stock market value of about £170 million.

“Exceptional UK used car market conditions have resulted in the group experiencing strong gross margin retention, which has had a material positive impact on profitability and cash flow,” said Vertu.

“Whilst used vehicle supply remains tight, particularly in the premium segment, the group has been successful in maintaining inventory and sales volumes at higher levels than previously anticipated.

“New vehicle supply constraints, due to semi-conductor shortages, have had no material impact on the group’s trading performance to the end of June 2021.

“New vehicle volumes and margins have remained strong.

“Service revenues and profits have, as expected, strengthened in recent weeks as the impact of the timing of annual service and MOT work mirrors the prior year’s lockdown and release.”

Vertu said it now anticipates the group’s adjusted profit before tax for the six-month period ending August 31, 2021, will be no less than £40 million.

“Uncertainty remains around the remainder of the financial year,” added the company.

“New vehicle supply levels will be constrained in the coming months potentially impacting profitability.

“As a consequence of reduced new vehicle supply, used vehicle supply may also be restricted.

“Uncertainty also remains around the possible impact of COVID-19 from potential future restrictions and colleague absence.

“The current UK wide labour shortages, high vacancy levels and upward pressure on employment costs remain a risk for the business.

“At this stage, despite the exceptional performance during the first half of the year, the board retains a cautious outlook but nevertheless now anticipates that the group’s adjusted profit before tax for the current financial year ending 28 February 2022 will be in the range of £40m – £45m (previously £28m – £32m).

“The board remains very confident in the prospects for the group, which is strategically well placed to capitalise on the changes and opportunities in the UK motor retail sector.”