Heidelberg's annual report shows some much anticipated improvements following the strong order intake at DRUPA 2012, but a closer look shows that the outlook remains rather cloudy.
This long-term quarterly orders chart shows declining orders following the last DRUPA 2012 effect. Fourth quarter shipments were strong, resulting in a low backlog of just above Euro 500 million. That does not bode well for next quarter's shipments and given the overall economic context it probably requires a small miracle to maintain last year's sales of Euro 2.8 billion and generate much needed further positive results.
Germany and China now account for 30% of sales and one can only hope that those two locomotives don't loose steam anytime soon.
Germany and China now account for 30% of sales and one can only hope that those two locomotives don't loose steam anytime soon.