Business performance

between October 1, 2005 and December 31, 2005

First-quarter performance in line with forecast
  • Net sales: Up 7% (5% after adjusting for exchange rate effects)

  • Operating profit (EBITA): Up 11%

  • Tight cost management compensated for fall in gross margin

  • German business grew significantly

  • Growth ahead of markets in Asia and the Americas

Full-year forecasts firmed up
  • Net sales: Up 8%

  • EBITA: Up 10%