Lafarge reports positive half year sales
01 August 2008
Lafarge recorded first-half sales of € 9,07 billion, up +8% on the same period in 2007. Increased sales were matched by an improved operating income of € 1,61 billion, an +18% increase on the comparable period one year ago. The company also reported a strong improvement in its 2008 first half operating margin to +17,8% from +16,2% in the first six months of 2007.
Chairman and CEO of Lafarge, Bruno Lafont said of the results, “The Group’s very good operational performance was achieved thanks to our strong position in emerging markets and the well managed integration of Orascom.”
“Our next cost reduction plan and continuing progress in our sales of innovative products will allow us to meet our 2010 targets” confirmed Mr Lafont.
The Lafarge sales figures were bolstered by extremely strong growth and sales in emerging markets, where the company reported a +53% growth in sales over the first half of 2008. This growth accounted for +67% of the company’s cement earnings.
Mr Lafont, on behalf of the Board, made a point of congratulating the Group for, “It’s very fast recovery of activities in Sichuan province, China, following the 12 May earthquake and the strong support that Lafarge has provided to employees and local communities.”
