With its companies combined in EMS-CHEMIE HOLDING AG and global activities in the fields of Performance Polymers, Fine Chemicals and Engineering, the EMS Group reports first-quarter 2004 net sales up 5.0% over the corresponding period 2003. Consolidated net sales in Swiss francs were boosted by 5.0% to CHF 317 million (302), an increase of 1.8% in local currencies. Higher sales volumes and successful implementation of the cost-cutting programme had a positive impact on net sales and operating income.
Further growth was achieved in main segment Performance Polymers, whilst net sales in the segments Fine Chemicals and Engineering declined.
For 2004 and on a comparable basis, EMS continues to expect net sales and operating income on a slightly higher level.
