Facts and figures

2006 2007 2008 Gross sales (million Euro) 493 518 491 Employees (number of full-time units) 2952 3014 3070

SFS intec is an efficient developer, manufacturer and supply partner for customized precision cold formed components and special fasteners for applications in numerous industries as well as system products for the construction sector.

SFS manufactures in 14 plants in Europe and North America and supplies its customers via an international network of wholly owned sales and service companies.

The trend of business at SFS intec varied according to business segment and market region. In the component supply business to the automotive industry the focus on selected growth areas again proved its worth.

For example, SFS intec participated in the automobile industry’s efforts to achieve substantial reductions in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. The increasing market penetration of safety systems such as ABS, airbags and passenger retention systems was also a major growth driver for the AutomotiveProducts Division.

Dynamic growth was also recorded in sales to customers in the electronics industry and mobile telephone manufacturers. Deliveries to manufacturers of carbide cutting tools were also expanded considerably as a result of the investment boom in the tool industry.

Delays in the final assembly and delivery of the Airbus A-380 resulted in significantly lower revenues from deliveries of components to the relevant customers.

The FasteningSystems Division posted double-digit sales growth in Europe due to the robust level of construction activity and internal strength. Our American subsidiary faced major challenges due to the downtrend in commercial and industrial construction activity and the steep price rises for raw materials and bought-in products.

A logistics hub and service organization were established in southern China to enable international key accounts in Asia to be served optimally in future and to facilitate participation in the dynamic growth of these markets.

The acquisition of a significant interest in a Turkish manufacturer of special fasteners for applications in lightweight steel structures and in industry was completed at the end of the year. This company will be utilized as a platform for the further expansion of our business in this market and in the neighbouring region.

In Sweden, new premises substantially increased manufacturing and storage capacity in Strängnäs. At the end of the year the Canadian subsidiary moved into newly completed premises providing extensive infrastructure facilities for manufacturing, logistics and administration.