for the half year to September 30, when compared to the first six months of last year.

It led to $463,792 in net income for the period, representing 19 cents for each common share of stock.

Chairman William J. Midon said, "The company sees tremendous strength in its existing business sectors. The exponential expansion of the use of global instant communications has dramatically changed the equipment business.

"There is an ongoing shift from stand-alone products that support the office environment to highly sophisticated, networked and Internet-connected, digital colour copiers and printers that have enhanced capabilities significantly.'' Mr. Midon said that to support growth in new types of office equipment products, the SHL office supply business would continue to grow.

He said, "The advent of enhanced technology brings more new products into the supply chain. As equipment continues to evolve, the supplies required to drive those machines are also more sophisticated than in the past.'' The company's medical supply subsidiary, Atlantic Medical International (AMI), contributed to the earnings. AMI has entered into several exclusive distributor agreements and more are expected.

The company expects the exclusive associations will fortify future prospects for AMI here and abroad.

SHL president Joan Hug, said, "Our medical supply business has seen exceptional growth and we forecast it to see continued accelerated growth into the future.'' A new, state-of-the-art computer system has been installed and should be fully operational by the end of December.

Ms Hug stated: "SHL and its operating subsidiaries, Staples Ltd. and AMI are poised for progressive revenue and income growth as we continue to concentrate on operational excellence.

"We are focusing on our materials management function from requisition of goods through delivery to the customer. Our goal is to meet or exceed the requirements of our customers as we apply quality techniques to the way we run our businesses.