In the second quarter of 2012, the mechanical engineering and laser specialist LPKF Laser Electronics AG remained unimpressed by the muted economical outlook in its market sector. The unabated demand for laser systems for use in electronic component manufacturing enabled the company to boost revenue by 34% to EUR 50.3 million in the first half of 2012. Earnings increased even more by 42% to EUR 7.4 million. The EBIT margin rose to 15% from 14% in the prior-year period. Accounting for revenue of EUR 29.8 million and an EBIT margin of 18%, the second quarter made a significant contribution to the solid net profit recorded for the first half-year. With incoming orders of EUR 60.0 million and orders on hand of EUR 34.9 million, the company now looks to the second half of the year with great confidence.
One of the decisive factors for the strong growth in the second quarter was the boom enjoyed by the LPKF Group in its solar business. From the end of last year, the company has benefited from a general agreement with an international solar cell manufacturer (volume: EUR 43 million) and its progressive revenue generation. Other factors include the thriving business with laser systems for cutting PCBs and systems for laser direct structuring (LDS). In both product groups, LPKF has once again managed to replace conventional production techniques with laser technology. Thanks to this substitution effect, the growth of the LPKF Group is not merely dependent on customers capacity expansions.
Nonetheless, while Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ingo Bretthauer is very satisfied with business development, he sees no reason to grow compla-cent: We are working continuously and are making every effort to im-prove the speed, precision and efficiency of our machinery even further. Only in this way can we successfully defend our leading market position.
After the positive performance in the first six months, the Company is confirming its guidance for the full year: If the global economy remains stable, the Management Board expects the LPKF Group to post revenue between EUR 100 million and EUR 105 million in 2012. Revenue growth is planned for all segments. The EBIT margin should be between 15% and 17% in 2012. Major orders not considered in current targets could substantially boost the Companys performance.
Given a stable economic environment in both 2013 and 2014, the Man-agement Board expects revenue to grow by approximately 10% per year and the EBIT margin to remain between 15% and 17%.
Cutting out delicate circuit carriers without adversely affecting sensitive components and conductive pathways: All possible thanks to LPKF cutting lasers.
About LPKF
LPKF Laser Electronics AG manufactures machines and laser systems used in electronics fabrication, medical technology, the automotive sector, and the production of solar cells. Around 20 percent of the workforce is engaged in research and development.