Interim report January - June 2010

Press release

Magnus Yngen, President and CEO:
"The year had a slow start due to the late spring in several markets. However, during the second quarter activities gradually improved with strong sales in June.

Sales adjusted for changes in exchange rates, acquisitions and divestments (adjusted sales) were up 5% during the quarter. Europe & Asia/Pacific increased by 10% and Americas was down 1%. In Americas we were able to compensate most of the lost low-end listings with strong improvements in other accounts.

End-user demand has increased compared to the preceding season. Performance was strong in several important markets, especially in Europe. Our estimate is that we have gained market shares in Europe during the first half of the year. Dealer sales were up significantly in all markets, demonstrating the strength of our brand in the market for high-end products. In other important areas such as Eastern Europe, demand continued to recover and sales picked up substantially. Construction showed good improvement in sales; the sustained focus on innovation and market-leading products have resulted in increased market shares.

Operating income adjusted for items affecting comparability, changes in exchange rates, acquisitions and divestments (adjusted operating income) increased by 34%. Increased sales and production volumes, improved mix as well as continued cost efficiency gains contributed positively.

Although it seems our industry has passed the bottom of the recession and end-user demand is on the rise, the trade still remains cautious regarding inventory management. Lead times are short and shipments are unusually volatile. Our estimate is that Group shipments in the third quarter will be slightly higher compared with the third quarter of 2009."

  • Net sales for the second quarter amounted to SEK 11,457m (11,481) and operating income was SEK 1,319m (1,116). Excluding restructuring charges, operating income amounted to SEK 1,476m (1,134).
  • Adjusted operating income in the second quarter increased 34%.
  • Operating margin for the second quarter increased to 11.5% (9.7).
  • Higher operating income for Europe & Asia/Pacific and Construction in the second quarter.
  • Net sales for the first half-year amounted to SEK 20,539m (22,633) and operating income was SEK 2,097m (1,902). Income for the first half-year was SEK 1,471m (1,225), or SEK 2.54 (2.33) per share.

PRESS AND TELEPHONE CONFERENCE

A combined press and telephone conference will be held at 12.00 CET on 20 July 2010 at the Scandic Anglais Hotel, Humlegårdsgatan 23, Stockholm. To participate in the telephone conference, please call
+46 (0)8 5052 0110 or +44 (0) 20 7162 0077 ten minutes prior to the start of the conference.

A replay of the telephone conference will be available at www.husqvarna.com/ir.