Bahlsen satisfied with 2011

Bahlsen GmbH & Co KG, Hanover, is well satisfied with the company`s 2011 performance. “Despite a challenging environment – in particular the rocketing cost of commodities – we succeeded in achieving growth, both in Germany and abroad. After two flat years 2009 and 2010 we are beginning to see an upwards trend, which we expect to continue in 2012,” said Chairman Werner M Bahlsen. “We stabilised our market leadership in Germany and strengthened our position on markets abroad, thus achieving our 2011 targets. Surging prices on commodity markets are a concern, and will continue to be so during 2012.”

The Bahlsen group confirmed growth of 3% in 2011, with sales up to € 517 m (2010: € 501 m). Sales in Germany rose 2% to total € 327 m (2010: € 320 m). Growth was driven above all by strong sales of the Leibniz brand and PiCK UP!. The PiCK UP! range chalked up growth of over 50% in Germany. Internationalisation remained a key strategic priority in 2011, driving growth abroad. Existing Bahlsen companies delivered good results, above all in Poland, Italy, Luxembourg and Belgium. In addition, export activities overseas and boosting teams in focus regions US and Middle East also contributed towards growth. In April 2011 a new sales office with a staff of three opened in Dubai; the US team was enlarged and now also consists of three people.

Bahlsen plans to invest € 33 m in marketing in 2012 – the same amount as the previous year. All brands – Bahlsen, Leibniz, PiCK UP! – will be promoted during 2012 by means of a comprehensive communications package and a host of attractive activities. Particularly worthy of note is the plan to launch Bahlsen on Facebook March 2012.

www.bahlsen.com