2023: Altana records 9 per cent decline in sales
Altana recorded a 9% decline in sales to EUR 2,742 million in the 2023 financial year compared to the strong previous year.
As a result of the very challenging economic environment, the speciality chemicals group Altana recorded a 9 % decline in sales to EUR 2,742 million in the 2023 financial year compared to the strong previous year (EUR 3,021 million). This was primarily due to the decline in demand from various industrial sectors, which was also caused by significant destocking along the value chain.
Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) reached EUR 385 million and were therefore 15% below the previous year’s figure (EUR 452 million). In addition to lower sales volumes, this was due to the continued high cost of materials and the costs of three acquisitions. The EBITDA margin was 14.0% (previous year: 15.0%) due to inflation and acquisitions. Adjusted for the acquisition of the Von Roll Group and other special effects, the EBITDA margin reached the previous year’s level despite the decline in volume due to targeted stabilisation measures.
Second largest acquisition in the company’s history
In September, the group made the second-largest acquisition in its history with the purchase of the Von Roll Group. In August, they also took over the business of Imaginant, the leading international specialist for high-frequency ultrasonic measuring devices. At the beginning of 2024, the Silberline Group was acquired to expand the global effect pigment business.
Largest division, Byk, recorded a 12% decline in sales
The largest division, Byk, recorded a 12% decline in sales to EUR 1,208 million. Adjusted for positive acquisition effects from the purchase of the Imaginant Inc. business and negative exchange rate effects, sales were 10 % below the previous year’s level. The effect pigment specialist Eckart achieved sales of EUR 351 million. This corresponds to a 12 % decline in sales. The acquisition of the Silberline Group will only have a positive impact in the current year. Adjusted for negative exchange rate effects, sales were 10 % below the previous year’s figure. Actega generated sales totalling EUR 496 million with increasingly sustainable solutions for the packaging and graphic arts industries. This was 11% less than in the previous year. Adjusted for negative currency effects, the decline in sales was 10%.
Europe remains the strongest region in terms of sales In 2023, all regions of the world were affected by the general decline in demand as a result of the weak economy and geopolitical uncertainties. Europe, which continues to be the strongest region in terms of sales, achieved EUR 1,037 million and was therefore 4% (7% operationally) below the previous year’s figure. The decline in Germany was 8% (11% in operational terms
