Macclesfield-based Bodycote — a supplier of heat treatments, metal joining, hot isostatic pressing and coating services — reported an income of £729 million in 2018, compared to £690 million in 2017.

Operating profits were up from £119.4 million to £134 million, while pre-tax profits increased from £117 million to £132 million.

Chief executive Stephen Harris (www.bodycote.com) noted that 2018 had “once again demonstrated the strength of Bodycote’s strategy and business” after it achieved double-digit growth in specialist-technologies revenues, alongside solid performances in emerging markets and civil aviation.