PARIS (dpa-AFX) - French industrial gas maker Air Liquide (AIQUY.PK) posted first-quarter 2014 Group revenue of 3.73 billion euros, up 6.2% on a comparable growth basis, and up 1.0% on a reported basis. Gas & Services' sales went up 5.7% on a comparable basis, and were stable (+0.3%) as published. Revenue from Gas & Services for Industry in developing economies rose 14% on a comparable basis.
Commenting on the quarter, Benoît Potier, Chairman and Chief Executive of the Air Liquide Group, stated: 'This quarter confirms the return to a more favorable economic climate that started in the course of 2013. This environment is notably favorable for Electronics, a business that continues to develop in segments with higher added value.' He continued, 'The first quarter of 2014 was marked by stronger growth and by a significant contribution from start-ups as well as by higher demand from our customers. We saw sustained growth in our activities in the Americas and Asia-Pacific as well as stability in Europe.'
The company said the investment backlog of 2.5 billion euros represents a vital source of growth over the medium term. In this context, and barring a degradation of the environment, Air Liquide is confident in its ability to deliver another year of net profit growth in 2014.
Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX