The firm’s turnover was up 30% on the same period last year, building on the 28% turnover growth for the financial year ending 2013.

The company said turnover had increased thanks to an expansion in its digital and qualitative services and investing in a new sensory testing lab in Kent while also winning new clients such as frozen food specialist Iglo Group, energy company Shell and windows specialist Velux.

Marketing Sciences managing director Jane Rudling said: “In a challenging market this is an impressive first quarter performance, which we’ve achieved by expanding our services, winning new clients and investing in our staff – at the same time as improving our margins.”