Bristol-based contractor Pearce Group recorded a fourfold profit increase after refocusing its business on core activities.

The company posted a full-year profit to April 2007 of £2.1m, up from £561,000 for the same period last year. Turnover increased to £157.9m, from £120.9m previously.

Colin Forrest, Pearce’s chief executive, said: “Our decision to focus on retail, industrial, affordable housing and education has worked. We forecast growth towards £200m.”

Pearce’s clients include Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Marks & Spencer. Tim Leigh, finance director, said: “Retail is active at the moment. Affordable housing is also central to our growth plan.”

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