The week’s best buys

Babcock International Investors Chronicle

This “high-quality outsourcer” specialises in marine and technology, nuclear decommissioning, and emergency services. It boasts growing revenues and profits, and a solid pipeline of work. Yields 3.1%. Buy. 998p.

Burberry Investors Chronicle

The arrival of luxury goods veteran Marco Gobbetti as CEO is a boost for the brand. Shares have fallen but profits are up, thanks to beneficial forex rates; sales in China have rebounded; and tourism has boosted shopping. Buy. £15.26.

MJ Gleeson The Daily Telegraph

The affordable housing firm focuses on the North of England, while selling land with planning permission in the South to larger housebuilders. Profit and dividend growth prospects look healthy. Buy. 585p.

Marston’s The Times

The pub sector has had a torrid year, but the negatives have been exaggerated and falls are overdone. Sales have risen across the group, there’s a new-build programme under way, and the brewing side is “standout”. Buy. 139.75p.

The Mail on Sunday

Spire provides “transparent” healthcare, with a price and timing guide for 75 medical procedures, from hip replacements to gastric bands. Majoring on the over-50s, it’s investing £175m in facilities, and sales are rising. Buy. 379p.

Volution Group The Times

Volution makes Vent-axia and other ventilation products, and is a “useful play” on UK housing. It’s growing in the Nordic market, and is using cash flow for acquisitions in a fragmented sector. One for the long term. Buy. 172.5p.