Bilfinger posts record operating profit

German contractor Bilfinger saw output volume and earnings increase in 2012 in line with its targets, and despite divestments and a planned scale-back in its construction business segment.

Output volume grew by 2% to €8.6 billion, up from €8.4 billion in 2011. The EBITA (earnings before interest, taxes and amortization) margin increased – driven also by capital gains – to 5.4%, compared with 4.7% in 2011.

Order backlog fell slightly for Bilfinger in 2012, down 5% to €7.4 billion from €7.8 billion the year previous.

International growth was a focus for Bilfinger in 2012 as the firm strengthened its range of services and its regional presence in the past year.

Recent acquisitions include the companies Neo Structo (India), Tebodin (the Netherlands) and Westcon (USA) in the industrial business segment; the companies Envi Con and Mauell (both Germany) in the power business segment; and the facilities management company SIELV (Italy) and water technology firm Johnson Screens (USA).