There are no inventories pledged as security for liabilities.

In 2009, inventories decreased by EUR 30.7 million of which EUR 9.7 million is due to the acquisitions completed in 2009 and EUR 0.2 million relates to the divestment of Integra. This results in a decrease before acquisition and a divestment effect of EUR 40.2 million.

The rate of inventory turnover in 2009 is 35 days (2008: 33 days).

The write-down of inventories to net realisable value amounted to EUR 4.2 million (2008: EUR 3.7 million) which is recognised in other operating expenses.