Clariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals, has announced first half 2018 sales of CHF 3.389 billion compared to CHF 3.132 billion in the first half of 2017. This corresponds to 7 per cent growth in local currency and 8 per cent in Swiss francs. Sales growth was supported by organic growth contributions from all business areas, in particular catalysis and care chemicals.
Most of the regions contributed to the good sales growth. Sales in Asia advanced by an excellent 12 per cent in local currency. This improvement was due to a particularly strong sales expansion in China. In Latin America, sales grew 12 per cent reflecting the recovery of the macroeconomic environment in this region. Sales in North America were up by 7 per cent and 3 per cent in Europe.
Care Chemicals and Catalysis both reported continued excellent sales developments. Sales in Care Chemicals rose by 9 per cent in local currency driven by both Consumer Care and Industrial Applications. Catalysis sales climbed by a considerable 22 per cent in local currency with a remarkable organic sales growth of 15 per cent.
Sales in Natural Resources increased by 4 per cent in local currency due to an improving demand from the oil market. Plastics & Coatings reported 3 per cent local currency growth against a strong comparable base with all three Business Units adding to the development.
“In the first half of the year, Clariant delivered strong growth in sales, EBITDA and most notably net incomeâ€Â, stated CEO Hariolf Kottmann. “Our adherence to Clariant’s five pillar strategy has resulted in the steady progress we have seen over the last years. We continue to focus on innovation and sustainability for portfolio advancement, leading to further progress in growth and profitability. For 2018, I am confident that we will achieve our targets.â€Â