Group turnover rose more than 15%, from $96.1m to $110.8m, for the three months to 31 March, largely thanks to strong sales in EFI's inkjet business.

Inkjet revenues grew 37% to $43.8m, while the manufacturer's Fiery business also grew 7.9% to $53m. Sales in the company's APPS division fell marginally from $14.9m to $14m.

EFI chief executive Guy Gecht said: "Our product portfolio performed very well in the first quarter, with inkjet growing 37% over the prior year and Fiery showing strong results during a normally seasonally weak period.

"Going forward, we expect new innovative products to maintain our growth momentum as we remain focused on investing in innovation, helping our customers to be more competitive and profitable."

The company posted a $9.7m pre-tax loss, compared with a $55.9m profit in Q1 2009 following a $79.4m gain on the sale of part of its California site, while its operating loss fell significantly, from $23m to $7.4m.