Operational developments 2009

Meat and other activities reported a 2.6% lower revenue of EUR 1,058.1 million, mainly related to slightly lower pig and poultry prices (-2.8%). The volumes were slightly higher (0.1%) than last year’s level as well as the acquisition effect (0.1%). Revenue in Canada was better due to an increased volume of eggs for H1N1 vaccine production.

EBITA increased to EUR 34.3 million from a small operating loss in 2008 mainly due to a strong recovery of the poultry activities in Spain. The return to profitability was due to lower feed prices and a stable demand for poultry meat. Also the Spanish pig business benefited from lower feed prices than in 2008 and returned to a profit in 2009. The poultry hatchery business in Canada has benefited from the high demand related to pharma egg business.

In Spain Sada launched a new packaging system, based on new PET technology, 100% recycable and more environment-friendly.