Aerial work platform manufacturer Haulotte Group posted sales of €289.9 million in the first half of 2018, compared to €264.6 million in the same period last year, a 9.6-percent increase. Equipment sales increased from €225.5 million a year ago to €252.3 million this year, an 11.9-percent hike.
In North America sales grew 10 percent, driven primarily by aerial work platforms, which boomed 23 percent. Sales jumped 14 percent in Europe, driven by strong demand from major rental companies in most European markets.
Sales in Asia Pacific jumped 12 percent over the period, thanks to the dynamism of sales in China. Sales leaped 17 percent in Latin America, with healthy results in all markets except Argentina.
Equipment sales increased 15 percent during the half year, service activity grew 6 percent and rental activity decreased by 8 percent.
Current operating income dropped 11 percent, mainly impacted by a less favorable customer and geographic mix, higher component prices and growth in fixed costs related to the group’s new strategic plan.
The group’s operating income posted strong growth at €26.7 million, up 53 percent year over year, driven by the sale of the rental business in Italy. Consolidated net profit increased to €19.1 million.
Haulotte Group confirms its outlook for 2018 and expects to be able to post revenue growth higher than 10 percent.
