Akzo Nobel N.V. reported positive volume development in all three Business Areas. Second quarter revenue of €3,710 million was 4 percent lower compared with the same quarter last year. The decrease was mainly due to 5 percent adverse currency effects.
Operating income improved 10 percent to €353 million (2013: €322 million), leading to an increase in net income attributable to shareholders of €205 million (2013: €184 million on a comparable basis). Excluding restructuring costs, return on sales improved in all three Business Areas, with an overall ROS of 9.5 percent (2013: 8.3 percent).
CEO Ton Büchner said:
"With the publication of the Q2 figures, the results of our ongoing commitment to organic growth and operational efficiency continue to be visible. We are operating in a volatile market, but we managed to increase volumes in all three Business Areas, and for the fourth consecutive quarter we saw positive progress in our year-on-year ROS. Compared to 2013, net income attributable to shareholders increased on a comparable basis. This quarter also highlighted some great examples of AkzoNobel’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, such as the opening of our new membrane electrolysis plant in Germany, the €6.5 million investment to expand the research center at our Performance Coatings site in China, and the start-up of our new €80 million Imperatriz Chemical Island in Brazil. We also launched our Human Cities initiative. These developments will not only help to further enhance our operational efficiency and stimulate organic growth, but will also boost our market leading positions, ensuring that we are on track to deliver on our 2015 financial targets."
In Decorative Paints, volumes rose by 3 percent, mainly because of increased volumes in Asia and most European countries. Revenue declined 9 percent compared with 2013, due to the divestment of Building Adhesives and a 5 percent adverse currency effect. Operating income was at the same level as last year, although when the effect of divestments and adverse currency developments are excluded, it increased on a comparable basis. The ongoing operational excellence measures in Europe continue to support the improvements in margin.
Volumes in Performance Coatings rose 1 percent compared with 2013. Revenue declined 2 percent, with the improvements in volume and price/mix being offset by adverse currencies. Operating income improved 9 percent, due to operating effectiveness measures, which offset increased restructuring costs and an adverse currency impact. Return on sales was 12.4 percent (2013: 11 percent).
Volumes in Specialty Chemicals increased 4 percent due to better market conditions in most businesses, with Pulp and Performance Chemicals and Functional Chemicals showing strong growth. Revenue declined, mainly due to adverse currency developments and continued caustic price pressure. Operating income increased 2 percent compared with 2013 due to cost control and operational efficiencies.
