Sika recently announced its sales were at record levels in all regions for the fiscal fourth quarter and full-year 2014. In the fourth quarter, consolidated net sales rose by 5.1%, despite a very strong prior-year period (+17.8%). There was reportedly a considerable decrease in negative currency effects. On a currency-adjusted basis, sales were up 4.6%. Sales for the full-year 2014 rose by 13% to CHF 5.57 billion (~ $ 5.48 billion), thus reportedly exceeding growth targets. All regions contributed to this growth and set new sales records.
Sales in the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) region increased by 13.3% in the fiscal year. Visible growth drivers in the Middle East and Africa, and the moderate recovery seen in the southern European markets, had a positive impact on the region’s development. North America recorded a 7.9% increase in sales. Construction projects that had been shelved in recent years are reportedly now being implemented, and a greater number of investments are being made in infrastructure projects and commercial buildings. The Asia-Pacific region grew by 12.8%, achieving sales of over CHF 1 billion ($980 million) for the first time. The majority of countries achieved double-digit growth rates and increased their market share. At 15.9%, sales growth remained consistently high in Latin America in 2014. In a demanding business environment, Sika reportedly benefited from its strong market presence.