Sika's efforts bear fruit

Net sales of the Sika Group advanced 0.9% in 2002 to CHF 2,122 m. Compared to the prior year currency-adjusted net sales were 7.9% higher. Operational results (EBIT) rose 25% from CHF 121 m to CHF 153 m. Consolidated earnings totaled CHF 79 m (prior year: CHF 60 m).

 

The operating free cash flow improved 32%, from CHF 82 m to CHF 108 m. In 2002 Sika spent CHF 116 m for acquisitions.

 

Sika's focus on growth, EBIT and operating free cash flow bore fruit throughout the company's operations.

 

At the Annual General Meeting on April 23, 2003 Sika's Board of Directors will propose an increase in the company's dividend from 23% to 24%. In keeping with the proposal the gross dividend per bearer share will rise from CHF 13.80 to 14.40 and per registered share from CHF 2.30 to 2.40.

 

 

Consolidated financial statements - Key indicators (in CHF m)	2001	2002	Increase
Net sales1 Consolidated net earnings Operating results (EBIT) Traditional cash flow Operating free cash flow 1currency-adjusted     Net indebtedness   Debt/Equity ratio in %   Number of employees	2,103 60 121 179 82       131   47.6%   8,029	2,122     79    153    194    108         194   45.8%   8,508	0.9% 31.6% 26.4%  8.4% 31.7%   7.9%

 

 

The complete annual report can be downloaded at www.sika.com (click on Investor Relations).

 

 

 

Sika AG, based in Baar, Switzerland, is a leading global supplier of specialty chemicals. Sika offers process materials for sealing, bonding, damping, reinforcing and protecting of load-bearing structures in construction (buildings and infrastructure) and in industry (transportation, automotive, marine and appliances & equipment).

Sika's product line includes concrete admixtures, speciality mortars, sealants, adhesives, speciality acoustic and reinforcing materials, structural strengthening systems, industrial flooring and membranes.

Locally based operations in more than 64 countries with over 8'500 employees connect customers directly with Sika and guarantee for the success of all our partners. With this concept Sika achieves an annual sales of approximately CHF 2.1 billion.

Visit the Sika website at www.sika.com.

 

 

The media release can be downloaded in PDF format from the following link: