In fiscal 2005, the Buhler Group achieved consolidated sales of CHF 1.5 billion. Compared with the previous year, this translates into growth of 3 percent. Group management is expecting an operating result (EBIT) at the level of a year ago.

Above average sales growth was achieved in the Food Processing sector, especially Pasta and Chocolate production lines, which grew by as much as 20 percent. Results were weaker particularly in the Nonfood sectors such as Die Casting systems (-1%), PET processing plants (-20%), and Printing Ink & and Paint production systems (-15%). These segments had to struggle especially in markets affected by the high oil prices.

In terms of regions, the shift continues from West Europe to the East. Growth was sharp in China and India. But business in America, too, has developed surprisingly well, Buhler reports.

Capital spending on Research & Development rose by CHF 8 million to over CHF 60 million.

Thanks to a 4 percent increase in order bookings, the backlog of orders for the current fiscal year is 5 percent higher than last year.

Also an encouraging progress in productivity is registered. Though capacity utilization fluctuations, higher raw materials prices, and the increase in R&D spending have had an effect on the result, Group management expects a value on a par with last year's. The detailed financial statement and the annual report will be published on the occasion of the annual analyst meeting in Zurich on April 6, 2006.

Buhler is a global Technology Group and the system partner for the supply of plant, equipment, and process know-how in the fields of Food Processing, Chemical Engineering, and Die Casting, with some 6,100 employees worldwide.