Sick's consolidated sales amounted to EUR 1,636.8 million, exceeding the previous year's figure (EUR 1,511.6 million) by 8.3%. Incoming orders exceeded the previous year's figure by 10.3%. The number of employees worldwide grew by 10.5%. EBIT remained at a high level of 7.2% (2017: 9.8%), taking into account the planned massive increase in innovation expenditure to 11.8% of sales. The development forecast at the beginning of the year was therefore achieved, albeit clouded by signs of overheating on the procurement markets, which led to considerable additional costs on the cost of materials side. Furthermore, opposing currency effects had a negative impact on the result. "With the targeted increase in the R&D share, we are increasing our innovative strength in the course of the technological change towards artificial intelligence and thus securing our future viability," explained Dr. Robert Bauer, CEO of Sick AG, on the occasion of the publication of the balance sheet figures. "The already visible successes of our start-up initiatives prove us right: sensor intelligence benefits from deep learning and delivers new functionalities for sensors."

Development in the markets

In the home market of Germany, sales grew by 1.3% compared to the previous year. In general, the flattening economic trend in the domestic market slowed Sick's growth momentum in Germany. Customers from the automotive and intra- and transport logistics sectors in particular were reluctant to invest in the 2018 financial year.

The Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) sales region achieved an increase in sales of 8.5 %. Particularly strong growth impetus came from all Scandinavian countries. Sales growth in North, Central and South America (Americas) amounted to 10.1%. The main driver of growth was increased customer demand from the USA. Growth in the Asia-Pacific region was very dynamic with an increase of 12.9%. In China, the volume of business increased significantly once again. Sales also increased significantly in Japan, Singapore and Taiwan.

The outlook for the 2019 financial year is cautious overall. Global economic growth is currently being constantly revised downwards. The risks to the global economy have increased considerably, making the forecast more uncertain. However, thanks to its broad industry presence and innovative product and service portfolio, Sick believes it is well positioned to continue benefiting from the increasing requirements - particularly in the context of digitalization and Industry 4.0. the very good order situation for ship emission measurement solutions and logistics systems in particular will support the targeted growth in 2019.