Beleaguered promotional goods business 4imprint has received a much-needed tonic in the shape of a large contract. But business is still tough, as William Davidson reports.

US-based electric motor manufacturer Leeson Electric has contracted fully-listed 4imprint to organise a gift certificate programme linked to its website. 4imprint finance director Craig Slater says the deal is for a 'fairly full range' of promotional goods – from clothing to more traditional desktop accessories.

But he was unable to say how much the contract is worth. 'We would like to be able to put some figures on it,' he says, 'but we could not do so in this case.'

Business is still tough for 4imprint, with customers from all industries cutting back on their corporate branding spend. Slater says: 'Certain areas are getting better, but others are languishing. It is hard work, and we have to plough on.

'We are working harder than we have ever worked, for fairly scant reward at the moment. But the market will help us eventually.'

The shares picked up 2.5p to 90p on the news, valuing the company at £25.8m. This is close to the year low.