THE family company that owns the Trespass outdoor clothing brand has reported a near 70 per cent increase in profits.

Glasgow-based Jacobs & Turner has highlighted the benefit of a two-year investment programme on its sales and profitability. Accounts newly available at Companies House show pre-tax profits at the firm increased to £4.7 million in the year ended June 26, up from £2.67m profit the year before.

The business, controlled by the Khushi family, declared the expansion of its retail operation in the UK and Europe had driven an 8.2 per cent increase in turnover to £95.1 million. Its portfolio now stands are more than 150 stores.

However, the directors said the “continued challenging we face competing in the retail sector” reduced its gross profitability to 32.7 per cent from 33.6 per cent in 2015. Writing in the accounts, the directors acknowledge the likely impact of Brexit, but underline their confidence that the business will continue to increase profits.

“The directors are pleased that the investment programme undertaken by in the last couple of years is now bearing fruit with the growth of sales and profitability throughout the group,” the company states in the accounts.

The directors add: “Despite the uncertainty surrounding the UK’s decision to leave the EU, and the weakening of sterling which will have a direct impact of the group’s purchasing power, the directors remain positive and are satisfied that with continued investment in our staff and systems the group can look forward to a healthy future with increased profitability in the coming years.”

According to the accounts, dividends of £600,000 were paid during the period, compared with £232,000 last time. The company employed an average number of 1,590 staff during the year, rising from 1,547 in 21015, with overall staff costs climbing to £19.2m from £17.9m. Directors’ pay dropped to £135,456 from £343,697, the accounts show.

Jacobs & Turner is controlled by brothers Akmal and Afzal Khushi. Their father Chaudry Mohammed Khushi bought the business in the 1960s and diversified from police clothing and workwear into anoraks and outdoor clothing. Akmal’s son Usman is a director.