A pair of trading updates and a boardroom change dominated the small-cap technology and life-sciences space, with CML Microsystems reporting a second-half recovery that brought the chip designer close to breakeven, while Oxford Metrics set out medium-term growth targets and Tristel named a new chief executive ahead of a leadership transition in August.
CML Microsystems near breakeven as second-half recovery lifts cash
CML Microsystems (AIM:CML) reported a meaningful improvement in its second half, with the business approaching breakeven as inventory conditions across its customer base continued to ease. The group said its order backlog had strengthened heading into the new financial year, providing early confidence in a return to revenue growth. Shares fell 5.1% to 280.0p, suggesting the market had hoped for a sharper recovery.
Group Managing Director Chris Gurry struck an optimistic tone, stating the company enters FY27 expecting a return to revenue growth, underpinned by the improving demand signals the business has been tracking through the second half. The cash position also improved over the period, reducing near-term balance sheet concerns.
Oxford Metrics sets out medium-term revenue and margin targets
Oxford Metrics (AIM:OMG) laid out a growth framework for its two operating divisions, centring its ambitions on scaling revenues and expanding margins over the medium term. The smart sensing group, best known for its Vicon motion-capture technology, gave investors a clearer picture of how it intends to improve financial performance across the business. The shares eased 3.5% to 45.1p on the day.
Tristel appoints medtech veteran Chris Lee as incoming CEO
Tristel (AIM:TSTL) named Christopher Lee as its next chief executive, with the appointment taking effect in August. Lee brings a background in medical technology and steps into the role vacated by Matt Sassone, who is departing the infection prevention products maker. The announcement was received steadily, with the shares edging 0.8% higher to 388.0p.
The transition hands Lee the task of sustaining Tristel's growth in hospital-grade disinfection products across international markets. Non-executive director Bruno Holthof and other board members, including Anna Wasyl, remain in place to support continuity through the handover period.
