Organic growth highest-ever at 12.5%

In Swiss franc terms, Group sales were up by 12% to CHF 2.016 billion (2003: CHF 1.801 billion). All Group companies (except Poland) contributed towards this encouraging result. The slightly lower growth in Swiss francs is explained by the fact that sales in the euro, which was trading somewhat higher against the Swiss franc, were unable to compensate completely for the losses incurred as a result of the weaker US dollar.

For Lindt & Sprüngli, as leading company in the premium chocolate market, the financial year 2004 was a success in practically every respect. Most European markets grew somewhat faster than in previous years. Overall the U.S. market showed only marginal growth of around 1.5%. By contrast, driven by substantially increased marketing investments on the part of LINDT and Ghirardelli, the premium segment witnessed exceptionally strong growth. Sales in duty-free benefited from the positive trend in the tourist industry. As 2004 was a leap year and various public holidays fell on a Sunday, the number of sales days was higher. And on the weather front as well, 2004 was a good year for chocolate, especially for LINDT.

The above-average sales performance by Lindt & Sprüngli bears testimony to the company's consistent brand management strategy, annually rising investments in marketing, and the continuous pace of introducing innovations. The improved position across all markets is anchored in the three key segments, tablets, pralinés and seasonal products, which together form a solid basis. Given the worldwide global trend towards high-quality confectionery products, Lindt & Sprüngli's strategy – launched ten years ago – of focusing on premium-quality chocolate in existing and new markets continues to secure substantial long-term growth potential for the Lindt & Sprüngli Group.

Lindt & Sprüngli expects that the percentage increase in EBIT and net income will be higher than the growth in sales. The complete financial statements will be published on 15 March 2005.

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  Lindt & Sprüngli (Schweiz) AG (Firmenporträt)
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