Thomas Cook results ahead of predictions

Tour operator Thomas Cook has reported results higher than the market forecast although pre-tax profit has dropped 0.4%.

Thomas Cook

Revenue rose 5.9% to £9.2 b but pre-tax profit dropped to £302.8 m for the full year.

Like rival travel companies, Thomas Cook has been battling the impact of the economic recession and the global fears of swine flu on its operations.

The company said that the economic environment “remains uncertain” and that the forecast for the leisure travel market remains flat.

The company is readying its annual Christmas campaign designed to drive early summer 2010 bookings and is expected to retain its old slogan “Don’t just book it, Thomas Cook it”, which it revived last year.

As of last trade Thomas Cooks shares were priced at 217.7 pence, more than 45% up on the share price of a year ago.