Harrogate’s Vp sees ‘long-term drivers of demand’

Harrogate-based equipment rental group Vp plc said on Friday it Vp expects to report FY26 profits of between £26 million and £29 million, in line with previous revised guidance.

In a trading update for the financial year ended March 31, 2026, Vp said: “Despite tough market conditions, the group continues to see long-term drivers of demand across its core sectors.

“Within the Infrastructure sector, Electricity transmission continues to see growth and strong demand in both the UK and Europe.

“Rail activity is steady but subdued, with good visibility on future project pipelines.

“There are positive lead indicators in Water as we enter Year 2 of AMP8, supporting our confidence in an improvement in revenues for FY27.

“Within the Construction sector, the Specialist Construction market remains supportive, particularly in London and the Republic of Ireland.

“Housebuilding remains subdued, but with stronger prospects as Homes England’s Social and Affordable Homes Programme (SAHP) 2026-2036 commences.

“The immediate impact of the Middle East conflict has been limited to higher fuel costs, which has been largely mitigated through customer pricing.”

Vp plc is a specialist equipment rental business providing equipment, people, services and support for specialist projects. It focuses on niche sectors principally in the Infrastructure, Construction, Housebuilding and Energy markets in the UK and overseas.

Vp’s businesses include Groundforce, TPA, Torrent Trackside, Brandon Hire Station, MEP, ESS, UK Forks, Airpac Rentals, CPH and Tech Rentals.

Vp CEO Alice Woodwar said: “Vp has continued to deliver a disciplined performance and good strategic progress. Our focus on infrastructure-led markets, operational efficiency and digital delivery positions us well to navigate the near-term environment and build long term sustainable value for stakeholders.”