Tetra Laval

Comments by the Chairman Larry Pillard

Strong performance by all industry groups

2011 was a successful year for our Group. We enjoyed good growth despite political uncertainty and financial turmoil. Net sales increased by approximately 5 per cent and costs were under control even though raw materials and personnel costs put pressure on our margins. All of our industry groups – Tetra Pak, Sidel and DeLaval – performed well. From a market point of view, Tetra Laval enjoyed good growth particularly in developing markets like China, Greater Middle East, Russia and Central and South America.

Tetra Laval continued to invest 3 to 4 per cent of sales in R&D. This is in line with our long-term commitment to R&D and our ability to develop innovative products and solutions for the future. Our investment in both existing and new plants to increase production capacity, safety and efficiency, while at the same time creating environmental benefits, will make it possible for the Group to strengthen its market position in the future.

Read the complete article in the Tetra Laval annual report (pdf)