Recruitment and training group Quantica has posted a positive set of interim results for the first half of the year.

The firm, which specialises in technology, search and selection, healthcare, training and construction, saw its turnover in the six months to 27 May 2005 increase 23% to £17m, and recorded a pre-tax profit of £1m, an increase of 25%.

Earnings per share before goodwill amortisation also rose to 2.22p, an increase of 33%.

“Once again, I am pleased to announce that trading has improved year-on-year, with solid organic growth recorded in all areas,” said chairman and chief executive Les Lawson (pictured).

“We have a good balance in the business. We cover lots of different markets. If one is struggling, we can cover in another sector.”

Quantica continues to chip away at its somewhat large net debt, which stood at £6.9m as at 27 May.

Lawson also explained the company’s philosophy, after its search and selection business posted a £603,000 profit, the highest of its five divisions.

“I’m not a great believer in online recruitment,” he said. “The internet is fantastic in that you can get a mass of candidates to apply. But in the selection business it’s about seeing people.”

Quantica’s healthcare division continues to prosper, recording 28% growth and an overall profit of £562,000 in the 12 months to 27 May.

The firm’s fledgling construction division recorded the biggest overall rise, with 218% growth in the 12 months to 27 May, to record an overall profit of £35,000.

Quantica has 23 offices and 230 staff, and expects to open a further five branches next year.