The Volvo group’s first quarter of 2013 was characterised by low sales volumes and low capacity utilisation. Net sales for the first quarter declined 25% to SEK58.3bn (US$8.79bn), primarily because of the weak order intake in late 2012.

The sales volumes were the lowest since the financial crisis and were on the level of the first quarter of 2009. Then, the group reported a loss of SEK4.5bn, compared with a profit of SEK0.5bn for the first quarter this year.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

“Despite uncertainty in the global economy, order intake has improved and we have many new, competitive products on their way to the market. That being said, the second quarter of 2013 will pose a challenge for us and our suppliers, with respect to the changeover to new products and the ramp-up of the industrial system to higher volumes. At the same time, we are focusing on our strategy with all the important measures aimed at improving the overall profitability for the Volvo group,” said Olof Persson, president and CEO.

Net sales and operating income

During the first quarter of 2013, Volvo group’s net sales decreased by 25% to SEK58.3bn (Q1 2012: SEK77.8bn) Adjusted for currency movements and acquired and divested units, net sales decreased by 17% and operating income amounted to SEK482m (SEK6.24bn). Operating margin in the first quarter was 0.8% (8%). In the first quarter, earnings per share were a negative SEK0.15 (+SEK1.99) whereas operating cash flow in the industrial operations was negative by SEK7.6bn (-SEK4.9bn). Truck order intake increased by 30% compared to the fourth quarter of 2012.

There was a net loss of SEK248m in the first quarter of 2013 compared with a SEK4.13bn profit in the first quarter of 2012.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.