Focus on sustaining profitable growth
The focus of the Clariant Group’s strategic realignment in recent years has been on implementing measures under the extensive Project Clariant restructuring program, with the objectives of generating cash, reducing costs, and streamlining the corporate structure and processes. These measures have enabled the company to increase its operating return and take key steps with regard to its organizational and IT structure and future strategic positioning. Compared to the rest of the sector, Clariant gained considerable ground in terms of profitability, with an operating sales return before extraordinary expenses of more than 9 percent and a return on invested capital (ROIC) before exceptional items of above 18 percent.
The restructuring phase is largely complete, although some efficiency improvements announced in 2009 and 2010 will take until 2013 to implement, including such projects as the relocation of textile chemical production from Switzerland to Asia/Pacific.However, the achievements to date are not an excuse to rest on our laurels; instead, they serve as an impetus to continue steadfastly on the path toward increased profitability and, ultimately, sustaining profitable growth.
