In the first quarter, net sales increased to SEK 8,334 million, compared with SEK 8,066 million in the same period last year. EBITA decreased to SEK 869 million from SEK 900 million, with an EBITA margin of 10.4 percent compared with 11.2 percent. Adjusted for the negative calendar effect of the quarter, however, EBITA increased by 5 percent.
Higher fees, an improved billing ratio, and completed acquisitions contributed positively to the result. Demand remained stable in infrastructure, water, environment, energy, and defense and security, while the market for residential and commercial properties remained weak.
Sweco also continued to drive its long-term growth through acquisitions. During the quarter, the acquisition of the Belgian architectural firm CONIX RDBM Architects, with 50 experts, was announced, which will strengthen the company's offering in large-scale urban development. In addition, two smaller acquisitions were completed in Finland and Belgium.
Sweco is one of Skirner's strategic holdings.
Skirner is the principal owner and co-founder of Sweco AB, Europe's leading consulting firm in engineering and architecture with 23,000 employees and sales of SEK 31.5 billion.
The family's and Skirner's ownership in the present Sweco dates back to 1958. The SWECO share is listed on NASDAQ OMX Stockholm.
Skirner AB
Box 5884
102 40 Stockholm
Grev Turegatan 19.5 tr
Stockholm