FIXING gamblers’ passion for a flutter has helped revenues rise at a technology firm.

Zytronic says gaming sector demand for large-screen units has lifted sales and helped nudge profits higher.

The company is responsible for touchscreen equipment, which is used by people every day to access cashpoints, ticket booths and soft drinks machines.

However, bosses say the business has particularly benefited from a switch to the larger-format sensor market, most notably in the gaming industry, as well as the museum display units, where a number of people can use screens at the same time.

According to its latest results for the six months to March 31, revealed yesterday, clamour for its goods helped drive group revenue 14 per cent higher than a year ago to £11.3m.

Touch revenues were up from £8.3m to £10m, with overall pre-tax profit, which stood at £1.8m 12 months ago, rising to £2.5m.

The company added that after adjusting for the benefit of the reduction in foreign exchange charges, owing to the sunken pound, pre-tax profit increased 19 per cent to £2.6m.

Tudor Davies, chairman, said the business, based in Blaydon, near Gateshead, was primed to continue growing as operators covet its goods.

He said: “The half year continued to show an increase in demand, especially for our large-format touch products, resulting in an improvement in overall margins and profits.

“The principal driver of growth continues to be the large-format sizes, in particular gaming sector upright cabinet designs through both Asia Pacific and UK-based customers.

“The second half of the year has started well and is in line with expectations.

“On this basis, we expect to make further progress in creating value for shareholders.”

The company has moved away from non-touch glass displays to next generation screens with the latter helping it gain real traction in the gambling sector.

A deal to supply equipment for Spain’s multi-player Wingo Bingo Station has been complemented by development of large roulette tables across Bulgarian, French and Irish casinos.

However, history fans’ clamour for information is also maintaining its expansion, with Zytronic’s technology chosen for use in Poland’s Pan Tadeusz museum.