Metso Oyj: 2006 Financial Review Shows Significant Growth
Metso Oyj, formerly Outokumpu Technology Oyj, reported substantial growth for 2006. The company's sales increased by 33%, and operating profit more than doubled compared to the previous year.
Metso Oyj, previously Outokumpu Technology Oyj, announced a strong financial performance for the 2006 fiscal year, driven by robust demand for minerals and metals processing technologies. The company achieved a 33% increase in sales and a 112% rise in operating profit over the prior year.
During 2006, Metso's order intake grew by 52%, reaching EUR 1,032.2 million, with the order backlog at year-end standing at EUR 866.4 million, a 45% increase. Sales for the full year amounted to EUR 740.4 million, and operating profit reached EUR 51.6 million. This performance reflects the company's ability to capitalize on market trends, particularly in iron ore sintering and pelletizing technologies.
CEO Tapani Järvinen noted that customers in the mining and metallurgical sectors made significant investments in modernizing and expanding production facilities. This trend led to record order intake for the company, and Metso's new hydrometallurgical technologies also received positive customer reception.
The Board of Directors has proposed a dividend of EUR 0.35 per share for 2006. Looking ahead to 2007, Metso anticipates similar sales growth and a clear increase in operating profit, supported by a solid order backlog and continued investment in the industry.