Compared to September 30, 2007, the balance sheet total rose by €25 million, i.e. 2%, to €1,250 million. On the asset side, the main increase was in other current assets. On the equity and liabilities side, it was largely the rise in non-current financial liabilities and current trade payables, partly offset by a fall in equity, that accounted for the overall increase.

With profit for the period of €61 million, equity at the end of the half-year was down €65 million in particular following the payment of dividends totaling €88 million and the buy-back of shares worth €44 million. Non-current financial liabilities increased to €208 million (September 30, 2007: €170 million) mainly through the take-up of additional funds totaling €35 million under the revolving facility. Current trade payables as of March 31, 2008, were up €64 million at €298 million (September 30, 2007: €234 million).