DESURVEY group is a recruitment agency for the oil, gas and petrochemical industries.

Despite difficult trading conditions, business grew by 8.35% to the end of 2008, with turnover touching £13.8m.

Profit before tax weighed in at £189,349, up from the previous figure of £103,487.

During the year, the company relocated from Hamilton Square, Birkenhead, to premises in Ellesmere Port.

The directors’ report, filed in June at Companies House, states: “The company relocated to the new head office building which was acquired during the previous year and this has assisted in facilitating the technological requirements that modern business demands.

“The directors have assessed the main risks facing the company as being increased competition from companies based in countries which have recently joined the European Union, the recent substantial fluctuations on foreign exchange markets, and the uncertainty in the global energy markets.

“Overall, the directors are pleased with the company’s performance and strong position and believe that the quality of the company’s services and in-depth knowledge of clients’ requirements will continue to reduce these risks and anticipate seeing satisfactory trading results in the coming year.”

Desurvey was established in 1976 to provide engineering design and consultancy services for the international petrochemical and offshore oil and gas industries. This involves recruiting and placing skilled individuals worldwide.

A spokesman said: “We recruit and place personnel throughout the UK, Europe and worldwide, and we have one of the most up-to-date databases of registered engineers, designers and managers.

“Our accredited consultants work with companies and individuals looking for short-term and permanent placements.”

Currently there are over 200 Desurvey-placed staff on assignment.”

BARRY TURNBULL