AUTOLOGIC'S acquisition of vehicle distribution and logistics company Walon, has played a big part in its pre-tax profits rising by 35% to £5.7 million for the first six months of the year. The period to June saw AutoLogic's turnover grow by 32% to £54.1 million (1997: £40.9 million).

Group chairman, Reg Heath, says he has been particularly pleased with Walon's performance following its acquisition in September last year, and attributing much of the subsidiary's success to the launch of its new fleet and remarketing operation. The operation is based at a new £4 million 33-acre flagship site at Greenham Park, near Newbury, Berks, and a further six locations have been identified as centres which will handle fleet business.

Heath said: 'The new car markets which the group serves have shown positive growth in the first six months of 1998 and this, coupled with organic development, has enabled the distribution division to grow revenue to £31.4 million, of which the UK contributed £22.4 million and Walon £9 million.'