Rodenstock: positive results in 2003 and at start of 2004

Rodenstock closed 2003 and the first quarter of 2004 with positive results. Sales grew compared to the same period last year and are allowing Rodenstock to take an optimistic look at the future.

Sales reached 96 million euros in the first quarter of 2004, whereas at 368 million euros the increase in 2003 was 19 million compared to 2002.

'The results for this quarter underscore the fact that we are moving in the right direction', said Giancarlo Galli, Ceo of Rodenstock. The new strategic objective is 'the path to growth in profits. In the coming months we want to resolutely focus on this objective and concentrate on the continuing positive trend on international markets and, as the leader of the German market, on the development of new stimuli for market recovery with new products, attention to customers and direct consumer actions. We will continue to offer to qualified opticians and wearers of glasses a strong and reliable brand with innovative products and the best possible service. Sell-out will also be backed up by consumer-oriented marketing and communication activities'.