Horgen, October 26, 2005 – In the first nine months of 2005, Schweiter Technologies Group reported new orders of CHF 274.1 million (+8%). On a like-for-like consolidation basis, continuing operations posted a 27% decline. Gross revenues came to CHF 244.8 million (-7%), or ‑32% on a like-for-like consolidation basis. Although order intake and revenues remained lacklustre at SSM Textile Machinery and Ismeca Semiconductor, the Group turned in a stronger performance in the 3rd quarter compared with previous periods.
SSM Textile Machinery
SSM Textile Machinery’s order intake was depressed by the slump that continues to dog China and, to some extent, Turkey – both key markets for the division. This contrasts with an encouraging performance in the Indian subcontinent. Profitability improved in the 3rd quarter, pushing the EBIT margin back into the 10%-plus zone. A lot of positive momentum was generated by ITMA Asia, the major textile machinery show staged in October.
Satisloh
Satisloh reported a healthy Q3 order intake, improving on the figures for the preceding quarters. While former Satis Vacuum’s revenues and profit fell moderately short of the year-back level, LOH’s performance was stronger than expected on the back of a solid intake of new orders. The integration is proceeding according to plan .
Ismeca Semiconductor
New orders topped the figures for the preceding quarters but at a consistently low level. Invoiced Q3 revenues and anticipated Q4 turnover were at approximately breakeven. It is difficult to forecast how the semiconductor cycle will behave .