Heidelberg’s Q4 Preliminary Figures Show Positive Developments in Sales, Operating Result

As expected, preliminary incoming orders in the fourth quarter were down on the previous year’s level of €637 million at just over €570 million. Based on previous experience, this is because print shops are holding back with orders in the quarter prior to drupa (which takes place in May 2012).

“Sales in the final quarter were encouragingly high. The operating result continued to improve as the year went on. However, due to the necessary balance sheet provision, we were unable to achieve our target for the year as a whole,” said Heidelberg CEO Bernhard Schreier. “drupa has come at exactly the right time and we expect this key trade show to give the industry a favorable impetus. Customer response to the numerous innovations at the show is very promising so far,” he continued.