SFS : achieves dynamic sales growth

Engineered Components segment: Dynamic growth momentum

The Engineered Components segment achieved broad-based sales growth. Its first-half sales amounted to CHF 428.2 million. Compared with the previous year period, this corresponds to a growth of 20.4%, whereof 11.8% accounts for changes in the scope of consolidation. Core sales growth amounted to 10.9%. With the EBITA margin standing at 19.7%, profitability was held at the high year-ago level. Besides the good rates of capacity utilization, widespread efforts to increase productivity contributed to this positive result.

Fastening Systems segment: Solid growth sustained

The relevant markets for the Fastening Systems segment maintained their good momentum throughout the first half of 2017. Sales rose 7.6% year-on-year to CHF 190.2 million. Excluding exchange-rate fluctuations and changes in the scope of consolidation, sales were up by 7.8%. This attractive growth - and the ensuing increase in market share - can be traced to the market's broad recovery and the successful uptake of the segment's innovative products. Profitability improved versus the previous year's period, bringing the EBITA margin to 9.4% (prior year: 8.6%). Large projects in both divisions aimed at further improving productivity are currently being implemented.

Distribution & Logistics segment: Acceleration in growth

Thanks to its vast expertise in logistics systems and its attractive products and services, the Distribution & Logistics segment (SFS unimarket) profited from the improving economy and acquired more new customers. Sales grew by 2.4% versus the first half of 2016 and amounted to CHF 160.2 million. Excluding a book gain attained last year due to the disposal of a property, the EBITA margin was sustained at 7.0% compared with the first half of 2016.