Growth in the Sulzer core divisions, with an order intake totalling CHF 1013 million, was with 39% (adjusted for acquisitions, divestitures and currency effects: 16%) markedly higher than the first half of last year. All core divisions contributed to this good result. Sulzer Metco closes the first half year with an increase of 18% (adjusted: 1%) at CHF 211 million. This is a good result, especially after a lower first quarter 2001 compared to 2000. Sulzer Turbomachinery Services continued its high growth, delivering a plus of 72% (adjusted: 28%) to CHF 112 million. In parallel to the strong market performance, Sulzer Metco and Sulzer Turbomachinery Services successfully integrated the Interturbine companies acquired last year. Sulzer Pumps closed the first half year 2001 with an increase of 49% (adjusted: 20%) to CHF 529 million. Sulzer Chemtech confirmed the positive trend of the first quarter by increasing the order intake for the half year by 22% (adjusted: 23%) to CHF 161 million.

The venture division Sulzer Hexis has received 200 firm orders for the "HXS 1000 Premiere" fuel cell system from several of its key distribution partners. Production has already started and the delivery of the first commercial product is planned for October 2001.

Order intake by the discontinuing operations – Sulzer Infra, Sulzer Textil and Sulzer Burckhardt – decreased by 21% (adjusted: –11%) to CHF 1120 million. This decrease is mainly caused by the divestiture of Sulzer Turbo.

Overall the Sulzer order intake for the first semester 2001 totalled CHF 2193 million, unchanged from prior year period, respectively 4% lower adjusted for acquisitions, divestitures and currency effects.

For the four core divisions, Sulzer expects an ongoing positive trend in order intake for the current year. The divestiture of Sulzer Textil is well advanced. Altogether, Sulzer is progressing as planned in realizing the goals set for 2001.

The data on order intake no longer includes data of Sulzer Medica. Sulzer’s 74% shareholding in Sulzer Medica was spun off to shareholders on July 10. Sulzer AG will present its half year financial results on August 23, 2001 on a pro forma basis, thereby only showing its industrial activities. Based on advice from its auditors, Sulzer AG will include the first six months of operations of Sulzer Medica into its half and full year financial statement 2001. Corresponding IAS figures will be published in September when Sulzer Medica’s first half 2001 financials become available.

Order intake for the first half year 2001 (in million CHF)

(1)   adjusted for acquisitions, divestitures and currency effects 
(2)   incl. Interturbine companies, consolidated as of Dec 31, 2000 
(3)   incl. Ahlstrom Pumps, consolidated as of June 1, 2000 
(4)   divested per January 1, 2001