Wesel, Germany -- Speciality chemical group Altana AG, owner of polyurethane chemicals supplier BYK Additives and Instruments, has reported 2009 sales down by 12 percent to Euro 1182 million ($1630 million), compared to the previous year, despite an upturn in business in the second half of 2009.
BYK Additives reported sales of Euro 420 million for 2009, down 7 percent on the previous year, a 4 Feb company statement said.
In terms of region, group sales fell most sharply in Europe with a decrease of 17 percent compared to the previous year. North America and South America reported 2009 sales down by 12 percent. Asia, however, only reported a 2 percent drop in sales for 2009, compared to the previous year, due to significant growth rates in the second half of 2009, particularly in China, the statement said.
"Altana has managed the worldwide economic crisis comparatively well, thanks to resolute countermeasures and the joint efforts and commitment of all those involved," said Matthias Wolfgruber, ceo of Altana AG, in the statement.
Wolfgruber said that even if the current recovery in the global economic crisis continues, Altana would need at least until 2011 to reach the same business levels as before the crisis. "For 2010, we expect an improvement over the previous year. However, we anticipate a business year with great uncertanties." (RD)
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