International energy logistics group Peterson said yesterday operating profits fell by 6% to £7.4million in 2014 as lower oil prices took their toll on parts of the business.
Chief executive Erwin Kooij added: “This is a challenging time for our industry.
“Despite this backdrop, we remain committed to supporting our customers, the industry and our staff to respond to the continuing low oil price by providing innovative and collaborative cost-saving solutions to ensure a long-term sustainable future, and we continue to invest in equipment, infrastructure and our people.
“We think in generations, with a continued focus on making decisions based on the long term and working together to maximise opportunities.”
Netherlands-based Peterson operates in many different industries, from agriculture to coal and minerals and from oil and gas to biofuels and biomass.
Its three core activities are quality assurance, integrated logistics and related activities. Related activities include recruitment, procurement and project and consultancy services.
The company employs 3,450 people globally, including 385 in the Aberdeen area.
A spokeswoman for the company said it made pre-tax profits of £6.8million last year, but gave no comparative figure for 2013.
Revenue was up at £299.3million, compared with £268.3million previously.
UK subsidiaries including Peterson UK and 80:20 Procurement Services contributed 45% of group operating profits, down from 52% in 2013 which Peterson said reflected growth in the international contribution.
Mr Kooij added: “We broadened our reach within the energy sector from our core competence in oil and gas and renewables by securing contracts in other energy industries.
“Our strategy to internationalise our business through the transfer of knowledge and experience from the North Sea to the international market is paying dividends, and we secured a number of international logistics projects.
“Internationally, our specialist procurement business 80:20 began operating in Norway and the Netherlands, and we opened new offices in Malta and Trinidad and Tobago to support customers in these regions.
“We are confident our long term outlook together with our continued focus on helping customers increase productivity and efficiency through innovation and collaboration, while maintaining the highest standards in safety and quality, will ensure we remain well placed for future growth.”
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