Clariant continued to grow sales despite a slow start in Plastic & Coatings

Clariant AG / Clariant continued to grow sales despite a slow start in Plastic & Coatings . Processed and transmitted by West Corporation. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Sales increased by 2 % in local currency to CHF 1.715 billion

EBITDA after exceptional items was CHF 236 million

EBITDA margin after exceptional items was 13.8 %

Outlook reiterated: above-market growth, higher profitability and stronger cash generation

 

     

"In the first three months of this year, Clariant delivered continued organic sales growth despite the challenging macroeconomic environment," said Ernesto Occhiello, CEO of Clariant. "Our focus on customer experience and fast, reliable customer fulfillment is particularly noticeable in the progression of the Business Areas Care Chemicals, Catalysis and Natural Resources. Despite Plastics & Coatings being negatively impacted by the current economic and business environments, we are confident in our ability to progress throughout the year. We will continue to identify and address the next challenges and future demands of our customers, leading to above-market growth, higher profitability and stronger cash generation."

Key Financial Data

					First Quarter
in CHF million					2019	2018	% CHF	% LC
Sales					1 715	1 722	0	2
EBITDA before exceptional items					254	268	-5
- margin					14.8 %	15.6 %
EBITDA after exceptional items					236	256	-8
- margin					13.8 %	14.9 %

First Quarter 2019 - Higher local currency sales and improved profitability at Care Chemicals and Catalysis