SOFTWARE giant Sage said it delivered a solid performance in a difficult market as it posted a slight rise in full-year earnings and profits.

The Newcastle Great Park-based business, which trades worldwide, today reported that revenues rose to £1,340.2m in the year to the end of September from £1,334.1m. Pre-tax profits stood at £334.3m, compared to £330.8m a year ago.

Chief executive, Guy Berruyer, said the company achieved “strong growth” in recurring revenues and but that trading had varied across its different global markets.

“We delivered a solid performance in the context of a macro-economic environment which remained difficult in most of our markets,” he said.

“Europe’s performance reflected good growth by the UK and Germany, offset by the impact of weaker markets in France and Spain.

“North America delivered the anticipated improvement in the second half of the year while AAMEA continued to deliver very strong growth.

“As we look forward, the global macro-economic outlook remains uncertain and we are watchful of the environment in Europe, particularly in France. We are making good progress with our strategy for accelerating growth and remain confident we will continue to deliver on our strategic and financial goals.”