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In the first half of 2007, the Komax Group posted sales of CHF 165,8 million, an advance of 10.4% on the prior-year figure (CHF 150.3 million). The period saw an above-average improvement in earnings, with operating profit (EBIT) up 16.5% year on year from CHF 17.7 million to CHF 20.6 million. The Group's after-tax profit (EAT) came to CHF 16.0 million (previous year: CHF 14.1 million), which equates to a rise of 13.3%. Order intake increased by around 13%, from CHF 160.9 million in the previous year to CHF 181.4 million.

The automotive business is continuing to perform well despite a temporary slowdown on the US market, with numerous new models due to be launched soon. Sales of electronic car components are still rising sharply – an increase in safety requirements and further comfort-related improvements being two notable factors behind this trend. The greater demand for hybrid cars, which require up to 40% more wiring, is having a positive impact on sales of wire processing machines.

In regional terms, Komax registered particularly strong growth in Europe (+9%) and Asia (+48%). Sales in North and South America fell slightly (-6%).

As part of the wire processing product lines, fully automatic crimping machines are in high demand. Tried-and-tested products such as the Gamma 333 and Alpha 433, or the Alpha 488 twister, are the main drivers behind the Komax's strong market position in this field. The group also achieved success in the first half with new machines such as the Alpha 355. Productronica, the world's leading trade fair in the area of cable and wire processing, which takes place in Munich in November, should provide an additional source of momentum. Komax intends to showcase a wide array of innovative solutions at the event, such as the new Kappa generation (machines for cutting and stripping wires) and a simplified system for the manufacture of entire wire harnesses in the Zeta product line.

The medtech and photovoltaic sales markets continue to grow fast. In particular, Komax has received major orders for systems for the manufacture of inhalers (used to treat diseases of the airways, asthma and migrane). Initial orders have also been reported within the diagnostic segment for the measurement of blood sugar levels. Overall, the excellent state of the order book in Europe and the US within our customers is having a positive impact on our business.

Komax achieved good sales in the photovoltaic segment, thanks primarily to the stringer product line (Xcell 2500 and Xcell 3000), machine systems for module layup, and cell printing. In addition, the Rotkreuz plant received its first ever order for thin-film technology. The Group is working hard to expand its product range and is investing in new markets. Komax expects business in photovoltaics to increase twofold by the end of the current year.

The markets that matter to Komax continue to be in a robust state of health. The current state of the order intake points to a good second half. Thanks to high demand, especially for wire processing and photovoltaic machines, the Group expects higher sales and earnings for full-year 2007 compared to the previous year.

The Komax Group, founded in 1975 and headquartered in Dierikon/Lucerne, Switzerland, is one of the top global providers of wire processing systems and assembly automation equipment. The Komax Group operates production facilities in Switzerland, Portugal, France, the United States, Malaysia and China. It also maintains a distribution and service network spanning the entire globe. Its primary markets are the automotive industry, medical technology and photovoltaics, as well as the domestic appliance and office equipment sectors.