Shares in labour hire provider AWF have surged 6% after its half year profit jumped due to strong demand for contract workers.
The listed company made a profit of $4.4 million in the six months to September, compared with $1.7 million in the same period a year ago.
Revenue rose 29% to $62 million, and AWF chief executive Mike Huddleston says it's benefited from an uncertain economic environment where firms are reluctant to hire someone permanently.
Mr Huddleston says the outlook remains positive for the company.
He says the manufacturing sector does not look good, but there has been a resurgence, although from a low point, in the construction and roading sectors.
Mr Huddleston says in the next year or two there is still likely to be plenty of growth in temporary labour.
He says AWF is targeting the white collar market as it aims to shed its blue collar image and double its business in coming years.
AWF's share price rose 14 cents to $2.43 on Wednesday.
