BUSINESS is booming at a major Burnley employer.

McLeod Russel, which operates a major air filter factory at Farrington Road, has issued a trading update which said it expected profits to be significantly higher in the second half of its financial year than the first.

Chairman James Leek said the success had been achieved despite a downturn in European economies, where approximately 50 per cent of its filtration sales arise.

He said performance at the company's UK operations, which produce brands including Interfilta, was benefiting from greater operational efficiencies and higher levels of customer service.

"While the general economic outlook is uncertain, we remain optimistic that the group can continue to grow and improve margins, based upon its wide customer base, continuing cost and manufacturing rationalisation and focus on higher margin products and service."

The company has recently invested £750,000 in its Burnley site.