Strong sales growth

In the fourth quarter our organic growth accelerated to 6%, resulting in a strong organic sales growth of 5% for the full year. Acquired net growth was 3% during the quarter (2% for the full year). All divisions reported organic growth. The organic growth was very strong in Americas (14%) and Asia Pacific (11%), strong in Global Technologies (8%), while EMEA and Entrance Systems grew by 3% and 2% respectively.

Key figures

  • Net sales increased by 15% to SEK 23,167 M (20,109), with organic growth of 6% (5) and acquired net growth of 3% (3)
  • Very strong sales growth in Americas and Asia Pacific. Strong growth for Global Technologies, good growth in EMEA and growth in Entrance Systems 
  • Five acquisitions have been signed with combined expected annual sales of about SEK 800 M
  • A new manufacturing footprint program was launched at year-end. The total estimated cost amounts to around SEK 1,500 M with a pay-back time of less than three years
  • Operating income 2) (EBIT) amounted to SEK 3,746 M (3,359), with an operating margin of 16.2% (16.7)
  • Net income 2) amounted to SEK 2,588 M (2,385)
  • Earnings per share 2) amounted to SEK 2.33 (2.15)
  • Operating cash flow amounted to SEK 4,923 M (4,876)
  • The Board of Directors proposes a dividend of SEK 3.50 (3.30) per share for 2018.