DATA monitoring company Vianet today reported a slight dip in turnover and a profits as the tough economic environment led to more pub closures.

But the Stockton-based business, which monitors beer, fuel and vending machine activity, said there had been a strong roll out of its core iDraught technology to the Enterprise Inn and Spirit groups.

The business, formerly called Brulines, is also gearing up for the full launch of iDraught in the lucrative US market.

In the six months to September 30, revenues were £11.19m, down from £11.79m, while pre-tax profits dipped to £1.26m from £1.62m. Vianet said the profit figure was “adversely affected by a swing in exceptional items”.

Chairman, James Newman, said: "The board is pleased with the progress that has been made across all of the group's divisions during the period.  The group now has the right structure in place to secure additional blue chip customers across the business. All of the divisions, whilst at different stages of development, are making good progress.

“With a number of high profile customers extending their use of iDraughtTM, the development of significant global opportunities with the group's vending telemetry and cashless contact solutions, as well as the further progress that has been made in the Fuel Solutions division, the Board views the prospects for the Group with confidence."