Ansell reports steady growth in 12 months to June

ERJ staff report (DS)

Richmond, Victoria, Australia -- Ansell Ltd has reported steady growth in profits on level sales for the 12 months to 30 June 2012. The company said sales were essentially unchanged at Aus$ 1218 million (euro 1034 million), compared with Aus$ 1220 million a year ago. When reported in US dollars, this showed an increase of 4 percent due to the strength of the Australian dollar.

Profit (EBIT) Increased by 8 percent to Aus$149.4 million. The equivalent figure in US$ showed a 12 percent increase.

“The Board was pleased with Ansell's strong EBIT and EPS results despite

sales growth being inhibited by the H1 Fusion ERP implementation in the

North American and Latin America/Caribbean Regions and a H2 slowdown in

Europe. Ansell's global footprint, including its growing presence in Emerging

Markets, proved highly resilient in a very difficult environment. ” said Peter Barnes, Ansell's Chairman.

The Company's CEO, Magnus Nicolin commented “F'12's strong 12 percent increase in

EBIT and an 11 percent increase in EPS were achieved despite an economic slowdown in

Europe and a challenged Fusion implementation in North America.

On August 7th, Ansell announced an agreement to acquire Comasec SAS and its

subsidiaries for a (cash-free, debt-free) purchase price of EUR101.5m (A$118m),

which is being funded out of Ansell's available cash and credit facilities.

The company said lower raw material costs, predominantly NRL, could provide upside

during the year while FX rates appear likely to be a headwind in H2

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Press release from Ansell