Bertschi Group posts gains in difficult market environment
Thanks to the expansion of its worldwide activities, the Bertschi Group continued its growth in financial year 2019. In the reporting year, Bertschi saw group revenues rise by 1.3% to CHF 985 million. The workforce grew by 3% to 3100. Adjusted for negative currency effects, revenue gains of 3.6% in local currency terms were posted.
In addition to the economic downswing, the strength of the Swiss Franc also had a negative impact. In spite of the difficult economic environment, timely and resolute cost management enabled Bertschi to maintain earnings just about consistent with the previous year’s figures.
Looking ahead to 2020, Group CEO Jan Arnet is cautious: "Last year we saw a notable and steady cooling-off of the economy, and in Europe in particular important industry sectors have slid into recession. We expect this trend to continue in 2020, with corresponding effects on transport demand. I expect that our global orientation will allow us to offset declines in regional sales to some extent. But we will continue to have a strong focus on cost developments in 2020 as well." (mw)