In fiscal 2007/2008, Wincor Nixdorf again strove to improve its cost structure with the help of the Group-wide “ProImprove” program. The gross margin from net sales before profit charges arising from the carve-out (Glossary)  fell slightly by 0.2 percentage points to 27.4% (2006/2007: 27.6%).

Research and development expenses during the year under review were up €8 million to €105 million (2006/2007: €97 million), an increase of 8% on the previous year. The R&D ratio remained steady at 4.5%.

Thanks to strict cost management, the ratio of selling, general and administration expenses to net sales fell 0.4 percentage points to 14.0% (2006/2007: 14.4%). Selling, general and administration expenses, including other operating income and expenses, amounted to €325 million (2006/2007: €308 million).