Viking - the lawn care products arm of the STIHL Group, has reported record results for 2013, with global turnover from the Austrian-based business growing by almost 10% to €153.9 million (£130.6 million*).

Sales in Great Britain also hit a record level last year with turnover increased by 15% year-on-year.

Commenting on the results, Robin Lennie, Managing Director of the British sales and marketing subsidiary said: "Our customers are really understanding that Viking stands for seriously good, technologically advanced and reliable products, and they are investing in that package. We are consistently developing new products and growing market share, and with more new lawn mowers and ride-ons plus our first robotic mower in Great Britain in 2014, we're confident in experiencing another record year".

Simon Hewitt, Head of Marketing at STIHL GB, reflected on Viking's success in Britain, particularly in lawnmower sales."Both our Dealers and ultimatly our customers, appreciate the endurance, simplicity and excellent performance of our mowers and lawn tractors, he said.

"Our entry to the British robotic mower market is an exciting development for Viking this year. iMow's exclusive design and advanced technologies are already generating strong interest from busy customers who appreciate having a neatly tended lawn they don't have to mow themselves".

N.B.  * Sterling/Euro exchange rate = 0.849 (2013 average)