ASPO GROUP FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE FOR 2006
2007-02-13T09:31:03 CETASPO Plc STOCK EXCHANGE BULLETIN February 13, 2007
Net sales rose to EUR 225.9 million, the operating profit was EUR 12.8 million
- The Group's net sales amounted to EUR 225.9 million (EUR 204.9 million)
- The operating profit totaled EUR 12.8 million (EUR 17.3 million)
- The profit before taxes was EUR 11.1 million (EUR 15.8 Me)
- The earnings per share totaled EUR 0.32 (EUR 0.45)
- The dividend proposal is for EUR 0.41 (EUR 0.40)
- Prospects for fiscal 2007 continue to be positive
Gustav Nyberg, CEO of Aspo:
"Strong market conditions persisted in 2006 and Aspo was able to increase its net sales. The Chemicals and Systems Divisions boosted growth and earnings. The Shipping Division, which is the most important division in terms of the Group's total earnings, experienced some rapid changes in transport demand and cargo availability. Shipping's operating profit declined, which is why the entire Group's performance was unsatisfactory.
During the year, the Group's structure was strengthened and improved in many different ways. Our investment activities were higher than on average: we made an acquisition, we ordered two vessels, and introduced new shipping capacity. We also strengthened operational management systems, and implemented an action plan designed to improve the profitability of the Systems Division.
At the year-end, operational efficiency improved considerably, bringing profitability to the targeted level.
Thanks to our determined efforts, Aspo's Divisions are now in a better shape than ever. This provides a strong foundation for future operations and a good financial performance."
PROSPECTS FOR 2007
The prospects for all Aspo's Divisions for 2007 appear positive at the moment. The Group is expected to further increase its net sales, and earnings are expected to improve over the previous year.
The Group's international units account for the majority of Aspo's growth and for an increasingly large part of its consolidated net sales. In terms of financial performance, the countries with the greatest potential are those with a geographic or logistical connection to the Baltic Sea area. Growth opportunities for the next few years in this area appear promising.
The report including tables can be downloaded from the link below.
ASPO Plc
Gustav Nyberg
CEO
For more information contact
Gustav Nyberg, +358 9 7595 256, +358 40 503 6420
gustav.nyberg@aspo.fi