Orders received increased by 15% compared with the same period 2003. Significant orders were received from major customers within medical and electronic industries in the USA, where order intake increased by 51 % during the third quarter, compared with the same period 2003. In total, sales and EBITA increased strongly during the third quarter by MSEK 65 and 27 respectively, as compared with the third quarter 2003.  The order stock increased further, and a continued positive development of sales and earnings is expected for the full year.

• Net sales amounted to MSEK 772 (716).
• Earnings before interest, taxes and amortization of goodwill (EBITA) amounted to MSEK 78 (48). The EBITA margin was 10% (7%).
• Operating income (EBIT) amounted to MSEK 23 (-4). Earnings before tax amounted to MSEK -3 (-46) and net income to -9 (-42). 
• The debt/equity ratio amounted to 1.4 (1.5), compared to 1.5 at the end of 2003. 
• At the end of the period the equity ratio was 29% (29%), compared to 30% at the end of 2003.

FlexLink is a leading global supplier of innovative automation solutions to assembly and manufacturing industries. FlexLink, based in Göteborg, Sweden employs 520 people in 25 companies and is represented in 50 countries. In 2003, group turnover was MSEK 1,023. 

Göteborg, October 21, 2004

FlexLink AB