Business performance

During the period October 1, 2005 – March 31, 2006

Performance exceeds expectations at the half-year 2005/2006
  • Net sales: Up 12% (10% after adjusting for exchange rate effects)

  • Operating profit (EBITA): Up 19%

  • Good performance in Germany reinforces overall growth

  • Gross margin affected by start-up costs in the outsourcing business

  • Product business benefited from strong demand for high-end systems (intelligent deposit systems)

  • Growth ahead of markets in Asia and the Americas

Full-year forecasts raised
  • Net sales: Up 10%

  • EBITA: Up 15%