Hays plc reported revenue was down 12% on a like-for-like basis in the six months ended Dec. 31, 2020, the end of the first six months of its fiscal year. A like-for-like basis represents organic growth at constant currency.

Business at the UK-based staffing firm continued to be affected by Covid-19 in the first half of the fiscal year, Hays reported. However, performance improved in all major markets from the prior six-month reporting period.

“Since the pandemic began, we have helped over 200,000 talented people find their next job and provided advice, guidance and training to millions of others,” Chief Executive Alistair Cox said. “We have prioritized the well-being of our own people and temps, and I am proud of the steadfast way all our colleagues have adapted to the changing world, helping their clients and candidates at a time of great need.”

US gross profit was down 13% year over year in the first half; the US is in the company’s Rest of World segment. Hays noted good momentum and a strong pipeline of new client opportunities in the US.

Revenue by geography

Share price and market cap

Shares in Hays closed at £153.30 (US$212.60) today in London; they were 7.20% below their 52-week high, according to FT.com. The company had a market cap of £2.65 billion (US$3.68 billion).

For further coverage of Hays, please see our European edition of the Daily News.