AMSTERDAM - Akzo Nobel N.V. reported third quarter results that show positive developments in profitability in all three business areas, despite a challenging market environment.
Third quarter operating income increased 30 percent to €436 million, reflecting the positive effects of process optimization, lower costs, reduced restructuring expenses and favorable currency developments. Revenue of €3,760 million was up 2 percent compared with the same period last year, due to favorable currency effects, offset by divestments and slightly lower volumes. Return on sales improved to 11.6 percent, while return on investment rose to 12.5 percent.