Datwyler gains on meeting 2020 pharma, home-working demands 

Altdorf, Switzerland – Datwyler has posted net revenue of CHF1,012.1 million (€935.9 million) from continuing operations in pandemic year 2020, corresponding to a currency-adjusted growth of 1.2%. 

Operating profit (EBIT) rose to CHF148.0 million, despite expenses for managing the impact of the pandemic and start-up costs for new production capacities, the Swiss company said 9 Feb. 

Indeed, as well as improved sales in 2020, Datwyler’s healthcare and food & beverage units reported strong incoming order figures for 2021 as a result of the pandemic. 

Datwyler’s gains also reflected an increased focus on “system-critical elastomer components,” after the sell-offs of its Distrelec and Nedis distribution companies in March and civil engineering business in May. 

At the healthcare solutions business sales increased to CHF403.4 million – a year-on-year growth of 11.8%, adjusted for the impact of a strong Swiss franc. Operating earnings (EBIT) rose 24.1% to CHF79.2 million.

Extra “demand for Covid-19 vaccines and the ongoing rise in demand for high-quality FirstLine components accelerated revenue growth in the second half of the year.” said Datwyler. 

The food & beverage business, meanwhile, benefited from a general shift to home-working, which drove up demand for capsule coffee and electronic appliances and accessories. 

On the other hand, Datwyler’s mobility, general industry and oil & gas business units were hit by “significant revenue declines over several months” due to the pandemic.

“By taking action early, the company was able to adapt cost structures at the sites negatively impacted by the pandemic to the lower demand quickly and effectively,” stated Datwyler.