DEVELOPMENT IN THE BUSINESS AREAS
Components
Net sales in Components increased by 22 percent to SEK 707 million (581) and EBITA increased by 42 percent to SEK 67 million (47).
Market
Demand for production components from Nordic manufacturing companies increased in most of our customer segments during the quarter. In Sweden and Denmark the business situation stayed positive as a whole, even when compared to a strong first quarter in the preceding year. We increased sales in the Finnish market, and the market in Norway is also largely better, despite a prevailing weak demand in oil and gas.
Energy
Net sales in Energy increased by 5 percent to SEK 466 million (442) and EBITA amounted to SEK 55 million (57).
Market
From an already high level, demand rose somewhat for the business area as a whole. We had growth in demand for infrastructure products to national and regional networks in the Nordics, and sales of niche products in electrical power distribution remained stable. Demand for cable products to the manufacturing industry grew. The business climate for electrical installation products was more hesitant in the Nordics, whereas it was more positive in Great Britain.
Industrial Process
Net sales in Industrial Process increased by 9 percent to SEK 404 million (371) and EBITA increased by 6 percent to SEK 33 million (31).
Market
On the whole, the market situation continued to improve during the quarter. Investments in the Nordic process industry increased, apart from in oil and gas. Demand in the shipping market, sawmill industry and from manufacturers of special vehicles developed favourably. The business climate within other segments, such as machinery manufacturers, medical device customers and energy was stable. Selective efficiency enhancement measures are being implemented to increase profitability.
Power Solutions
Net sales in Power Solutions increased by 10 percent to SEK 404 million (368) and EBITA increased by 11 percent to SEK 51 million (46).
Market
On the whole, demand was at a stable level for the business area, but the business situation varied between different customer and product segments. Sales of controls and ergonomics products to the special vehicles industry continued to grow, and demand in the rail industry improved. Demand for battery solutions was stable within most customer segments. However, the market for power supply products in telecom and wind power remained weak.