Sartorius reports strong figures

Sartorius has published its nine-month results for 2010.

It says both Group divisions posted strong gains in order intake, reporting a solid order backlog in light of the last quarter of this year.

Sales revenue also showed strong development that was reflected by the over proportionate increase in operating earnings, which were around a third higher than a year ago.

On the basis of these positive results, management reaffirms its 2010 growth forecast for the Group and has slightly raised its profit guidance for the full year.

On the whole, the Sartorius Group received orders valued at 508.3 million euros ($702.17 million) in the first nine months, up from 454.8 million euros a year earlier.

This equates to a gain of 11.8% (constant currencies at +9.0%).

Consolidated nine-month sales revenue rose 8.5% (constant currencies at +5.9%) to 482.3 million euros, up from 444.7 million euros a year ago.

From January to September, the Group's operating earnings (underlying EBITA) surged 34.1% from 43.9 million euros to 58.9 million euros.

Accordingly, its respective margin improved from 9.9% a year earlier to 12.2%.

The Group's relevant net profit totals 26.4 million euros, up from 13.9 million euros a year ago.