Laser, Optical Systems Sales Can’t Stem Decline in Revenue at Jenoptik

Although laser and optical systems sales were up, other segments of the Jenoptik Group didn’t perform as well in the first nine months of 2014, leading to a 2.9 percent drop in overall revenues.

The company attributed the decline to project postponements and “subdued” demand from the machine construction, automotive and semiconductor equipment industries, as well as more stringent export restrictions.

Revenues for the first nine months of 2014 were €420.1 million, compared to €432.5 million in the first nine months of 2013. Earnings before taxes and interest were essentially unchanged at €37.8 million.

Lasers and optical systems revenue was €172.2 million, up 7.4 percent from €160.4 million the prior year. Jenoptik said there was consistent demand for laser systems for plastics processing, and project starts in the medical technology and life sciences markets were successful. However, business with the semiconductor equipment industry slowed unexpectedly and considerably in the third quarter.

Revenue in the metrology segment fell by 9.3 percent to €127.7 million; while defense and civil systems revenue fell 8.8 percent to €117.3 million.

Full-year revenue is expected to be around €600 million, the same level as in the prior year. CEO Michael Mertin was upbeat about the company’s outlook.

“With our strategy of internationalization we are well positioned,” he said. “We expect to show strong growth in particular in Asia, which will help us to compensate for weaker demand in other regions.”

For more information, visit www.jenoptik.com.