Wincor Nixdorf again achieved ongoing improvements to profitability thanks to very positive net sales figures and efficient cost management. Earnings before interest, taxes and amortization of product know-how (EBITA (Glossary) ) rose by 11% to reach €206 million (2006/2007: €186 million). The EBITA margin was up 0.2 percentage points to 8.9% (2006/2007: 8.7%).

Profit before income taxes climbed €20 million to €181 million (2006/2007: €161 million). This is equivalent to a rise of 12%. The Group’s effective tax rate fell to 30% (2006/2007: 32%), primarily as a result of a cut in the level of German corporation tax.

Profit for the period was €127 million, up €18 million or 17% on the corresponding figure of €109 million for the previous year. This meant a higher return on net sales of 5.5% (2006/2007: 5.1%).

The Group’s enhanced earnings performance is also reflected in profit for the period before profit charges arising from the carve-out (Glossary) . It climbed 14% to €135 million (2006/2007: €118 million).

EBITA History.                                                                                                                        €m