Compared to September 30, 2007, the balance sheet total rose by €73 million or 6% to €1,298 million. As regards total assets, the increase was mainly attributable to higher trade receivables and other current assets. The increase in total equity and liabilities was due chiefly to more expansive non-current financial liabilities as well as higher current trade payables, together with a decline in equity.

With profit for the period of €93 million, equity at the end of the period under review was down €34 million in particular as a result of the dividend payment of €88 million and the further buy-back of own shares worth €44 million. Non-current financial liabilities rose to €224 million (September 30, 2007: €170 million) at the end of the reporting period, mainly due to the further utilization of the revolving facility amounting to €55 million. Current trade payables as of June 30, 2008, were up €74 million to €308 million (September 30, 2007: €234 million).