On the occasion of "Ambiente" – the international consumer trade fair in Frankfurt – Villeroy & Boch AG is announcing its initial, provisional Group-trend figures for the financial year 2001. These figures show that after the 13 % increase in consolidated sales secured in the previous financial year, the year 2001 saw an increase of roughly 4 %, bringing the total to approximately Euro 975 million. Following adjustments which exclude acquisitions, sales experienced a decline of roughly 2 %.
The operating result (EBIT) of approximately Euro 41 million, was roughly 6 % lower than in the previous financial year. Taking into account net interest income of Euro -8 million, an EBT of roughly Euro 33 million results, as compared with Euro 36 million in the previous financial year.
Villeroy & Boch has successfully asserted itself and continued to improve its market position in the difficult environment, which is marked not only by a dramatic deterioration in economic activity in the domestic building sector, but also increasing restraint in consumer spending for products for the laid table. In the year under review, it was once again possible to secure an increase in foreign sales, which now account for 66 % of total sales.
Improvement in Tableware Division Performance
In the year 2001, the Tableware Division recorded sales of roughly Euro 295 million, a total which is approximately 3 % below that of Euro 304 million secured in the previous financial year. The Division still came off better, however, than the majority of German porcelain manufacturers, who had to accept a 6 % decline in business. Owing to increases in efficiency, the Division's operating result has improved, showing an increase of roughly 15 % on figures reported in the previous financial year and bringing the total to approximately Euro 15 million.
Trade-fair product introductions in the leading lifestyles
With its "Metropolitan Collection" tableware line introduced at "Ambiente" in spring 2001, the Tableware Division has occupied a market segment which appeals to an international public with urbane taste and is also arousing high demand in the hotel and catering sectors. This concept is to be expanded at this year's "Ambiente" in Frankfurt. In addition to "Metropolitan", positive stimuli are to be produced by interesting new products in "Ch�teau", "House & Garden" and "Switch" styles, as well as innovative cutlery, glass and table accessories.
Andrea Horn
Villeroy & Boch AG
Investor Relations
Saaruferstra�e
66693 Mettlach
Tel.: 0 68 64 / 81 22 21
Fax: 0 68 64 / 81 26 91
E-Mail: [email protected]
