Healthy third quarter for Haulotte

In its third quarter of 2017, Haulotte Group’s consolidated sales were up 2% to €106.1 million, compared with the same period last year.

Cumulatively, sales amount to €370.7 million, compared to €343.8 million at the end of September 2016, representing an increase of 8% between the two periods, with no significant impact from foreign exchange.

The company said the rise was partly due the commercial strength of most markets in Europe, enabling Haulotte to post sales growth of 15% in that area.

The Asia-Pacific region, reported stable sales, excluding foreign exchange, between the periods, but continues to experience contrasting fortunes, particularly in China where local competitive pressure is increasing and the recovery in the Middle East is awaited.

Activity levels in North America are down compared to last year, -6% excluding foreign exchange, despite delivering a favourable rebound in the third quarter. The continent was affected by the decline in scaffold sales in the US, while the aerial work platforms showed growth of 15%.

Despite a declining Mexican market, sales in Latin America grew by 4%, a sign of an improvement in other markets, said the company.

Sales of equipment and rental activity increased respectively by 8% and 16%, respectively at constant exchange rates, while the level activity in the service division was similar to last year.

Looking ahead, the manufacturer said the strong commercial activity, along with a healthy level of orders at the end of September, enabled it to confirm its forecast of annual sales growth of around 10% in 2017 and a return to operating profitability close to 7.5%.