Consolidated sales of the Saint-Gobain Group for the first quarter of 2004 amounted to Euro7,233m, compared with Euro6,986m for the same period in 2003, representing an increase of 3.5% on an actual structure basis, and 1.3% based on a comparable structure. The Glass Sector posted moderate like-for-like sales growth. Business was brisk for Insulation, Containers and Flat Glass for the automotive industry, in their principal markets. However, Flat Glass for the European construction industry and Reinforcements were once again hit by downward pressure on sales prices, despite a significant upturn in sales volumes.

At constant exchange rates, sales were up 7.4% on an actual structure basis and 5.1% based on a comparable structure. This increase was achieved thanks to a significant 5.1% rise in sales volumes in most of the Group's geographic areas, while sales prices held firm.

This performance demonstrates Saint-Gobain's ability to reap the benefits of the economic recovery currently taking hold, particularly in industrial production and capital spending.

The Glass Sector posted moderate like-for-like sales growth. Business was brisk for Insulation, Containers and Flat Glass for the automotive industry, in their principal markets. However, Flat Glass for the European construction industry and Reinforcements were once again hit by downward pressure on sales prices, despite a significant upturn in sales volumes.

Source

Glass Age