Gerber Scientific sees flat revenue until the fall

Gerber Scientific sees flat revenue until the last half of fiscal 2010, which ends in April

• On 12:11 pm EDT, Thursday August 27, 2009

SOUTH WINDSOR, Conn. (AP) -- Gerber Scientific Inc., which makes equipment used for signs, specialty graphics, apparel and optical lenses, said Thursday it expects flat revenue until this fall or winter.

The company, which also reported revenue for the three months ended July 31 of $119.7 million, said weak demand in most of its end markets is beginning to give way to signs of growth.

"Although capital equipment sales remain very unpredictable, sequential aftermarket revenue has improved noticeably indicating increased equipment use," said CEO Marc Giles.

"Furthermore, quote and order activity has improved, but it is still difficult to close transactions due to the lack of credit availability and economic uncertainty."

Giles said he does not expect any measurable improvement in revenue until the last half of fiscal 2010. The company's fiscal year ends in April.

He did not issue specific guidance.

In midday trading, shares rose 69 cents, or 18.2 percent, to $4.49.