Empresaria Group plc yesterday reported in a trading update that gross profit is down approximately 1% in the first six months of the year, but that it’s on course to meet market expectations. Adjusted profit before tax is up approximately 2%. The London-based staffing provider plans to release full results on 22^nd August.

The company reported strong results in a number of businesses, particularly within the Americas region. Strength in that region offset the impact of regulatory changes in Germany and Japan.

Empresaria had already announced last week that it acquired a 60% interest in Grupo Solimano, which provides outsourced and temporary staffing services in Peru. The company aims to increase its presence in the Latin American market with the deal; Empresaria already has operations in Chile and Mexico.

“In line with our strategy, we will continue to invest in our existing brands and identify further potential external investments to complement and increase the reach of our network,” CEO Spencer Wreford said. “The group continues to work through the impact of regulatory changes in key markets and is well positioned to return those businesses to growth.”

Empresaria Group has 19 brands operating in 21 countries worldwide.