In the first six months of this year, Audi recorded its best sales result in company history, with 389,970 cars sold worldwide (January - June 2003: 387,751). This represents an increase of 0.6 percent on the same period last year. This was supported by sustained growth in key Middle East markets as Audi continues to win market share in the region.
Worldwide, Revenue was up by 7.7 percent to the record level of EUR 12,328 (11,449) million. The operating result rose by 9.5 percent to EUR 586 (535) million. Profit before tax remained stable at the previous year's level at EUR 502 (505) million. Net profit rose by 16.3 percent to EUR 336 (289) million.
In the Middle East region, July 2004 recorded phenomenal growth in sales over the previous year. Leading the way was Kuwait with 85% increase on sales over July 2003 with Oman closely following at 80% For the same period, Audi also saw strong growth from key markets Dubai, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait with respective increases of 56% (Dubai) 40% (KSA) and 25% (Bahrain) over figures for July 2003.
"Despite very unstable markets and tough competition, we are sticking to our goal of a new sales record in the current year. With the new A6 which is to be launched in September, we are in an outstanding position going into the second half of the year. We are also aiming to achieve a strong overall result," explained Thierry Seys, Managing Director, Middle East & Egypt, Audi AG. (menareport.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
