UZWIL, Switzerland – While continuing its policy of reinvesting profits to secure future development, Bühler has continued its growth path, showing a healthy performance in 2016. Order intake in 2016 was up 3% to CHF 2.54 billion, compared to a decline of 4% in 2015. Turnover rose by 2% to CHF 2.45 billion, and profitability remained stable at 7.1% (EBIT margin). R&D investments were significantly increased. “For a company based in Switzerland, 2016 marked a real proof point considering the Euro/Swiss franc shift a year ago,” said CEO Stefan Scheiber. “In this context, we can be satisfied with these results.”
Both businesses of Bühler, Grains & Food and Advanced Materials, contributed to the success of the group in 2016. The strategy of two businesses that are both based on leading process technologies and services has proven successful. The group’s performance was strongly supported by its customer service business. Customers appreciate the local network of 92 service stations worldwide. Consequently, the service business showed higher growth and recorded a turnover of CHF 578 million, which is 7% higher than last year. The service share of turnover now accounts for 24% (previous year: 22%). On a regional level, growth in North and South America, Europe, and China compensated for downturns in the Middle East & Africa and Southeast Asia. Overall, Bühler holds a balanced position with its global presence: Europe reported a turnover share of 30%, Asia 25%, Middle East & Africa 15%, North America 17%, South America 6%, and South Asia 6%.