STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Oct. 11, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- Getinge AB's profit before tax for Q3 2004 is estimated to be around SEK190 million (compared with SEK 216 m for Q3 2003) which is expected to deviate from the market's expectations. The profit before tax for Q3 2003 developed very strongly and increased by 48% compared with 2002.
Getinge's business is mainly based on the sale of capital equipment for the health care market and is characterized by major variations from quarter to quarter and seasonal swings, with a clear peak in Q4. 2003 represented a change from the normal seasonality, as the first three quarters developed very strongly whilst the fourth quarter was weaker.
The earnings trend for 2004 will represent a return to the more normal seasonal course of events, where a very considerable part of the profit will be generated during Q4.
Outlook for full-year 2004
In line with prevailing market conditions, Getinge continues to make a positive assessment for the year's outlook and estimates that the profit growth before tax will be around 20%.
Getinge 11 October 2004
Johan Malmquist, President and CEO
A tele-conference will take place today at 10 a.m. Swedish time. To take part, please ring: From Sweden +46 (0) 8 505 20 114, code-word: Getinge Outside Sweden + 44 (0) 20 7162 0188 code-word: Getinge
GETINGE is a world leader in the fields of equipment and systems for healthcare, long-term medical care and the pharmaceutical industry/laboratories. Equipment, technology and services for combating infection, operating theatres, patient hygiene, patient care and sore prevention are supplied to customers globally. The Group had sales of SEK 11 billion and 6,600 employees in 2003
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