Business News
DuPont: First Quarter 2008 Business Segment Performance Reflects Decrease in Demand
Wednesday 22. April 2009 - The following is a summary of business results for each of the companys operating segments, comparing sales and pre-tax operating income (PTOI) (loss) for first quarter 2009 versus first quarter 2008. All references to selling price changes are on a U.S. dollar basis, including the impact of currency.
Agriculture & Nutrition
Sales of USD 3.1 billion were up 6 percent reflecting production agriculture price increases and North America and Europe seed volume gains, partly offset by currency.
PTOI was USD 852 million, up 8 percent, driven by higher sales, partly offset by significant unfavorable currency impact and increased input costs.
Coatings & Color Technologies
Sales of USD 1.2 billion were down 30 percent primarily reflecting broad-based volume declines across all regions and businesses.
The pre-tax loss of USD 19 million reflects lower sales volumes and unfavorable currency impact partly offset by fixed cost reductions and higher local prices.
Electronic & Communication Technologies
Sales of USD 696 million were down 32 percent reflecting 31 percent lower volumes and 1 percent lower selling prices. Lower volumes reflect significant de-stocking in supply chains for many electronic materials and general industrial markets.
The pre-tax loss of USD 54 million reflects the depressed sales volumes and higher input costs, partly offset by fixed cost reductions.
Performance Materials
Sales of USD 942 million were down 45 percent reflecting declines in major markets in all regions, precipitated by de-stocking and weak final demand, particularly in motor vehicle and general industrial end markets.
The pre-tax loss of USD 146 million reflects lower volume and higher raw material costs, partly offset by reductions in fixed costs.
Safety & Protection
Sales of USD 1.0 billion were down 24 percent reflecting an 18 percent volume decline and 5 percent lower selling prices. Volumes were down in all product lines, most significantly in North American and European motor vehicle, construction and general industrial markets.
PTOI of USD 72 million principally reflects the impact of lower sales volumes.