"The growth of the past financial year not only shows that we are continuing to participate in the above-average growth of sensor technology, a key technology that makes many innovations in various industries possible in the first place," explains Dr. Dirk Rothweiler, CEO of First Sensor. "But this success is also the result of our commitment to excellence."

Medical

First Sensor achieved particularly strong growth in the medical target market. Sensors ensure that parts of diagnosis and treatment can be carried out decentrally in the future and that medical care can increasingly be provided at home. Innovative developments range from medical and clinical care to e-health applications and the miniaturization of medical technology. In the Medical market, sales increased by 29.2% to 30.7 million euros in 2016 (2015: 23.8 million euros). Its share of total sales thus reached 21% (2015: 17%).

Mobility

The Mobility target market also performed well. Here, sales increased by 17.8% to EUR 46.9 million (2015: EUR 39.8 million). This represents 31% of total sales (2015: 29%). Among other things, First Sensor develops solutions that will put autonomous cars as well as commercial and special vehicles on the road in the future.

Industrial

At 48% (2015: 54%), almost half of the sales generated in the past year came from the Industrial target market. In total, First Sensor generated €72.5 million (2015: €74.1 million) with products for industrial applications.

The Industrial market is driven by the digitalization of the economy and society. First Sensor is shaping this vision of a smart future with sensors for intelligently controlled production. In safety light barriers and grids, for example, they ensure that automated processes can run safely.

Outlook for 2017

For the 2017 financial year, the Executive Board of First Sensor expects sales of between €140 million and €145 million due to the scheduled expiry of a major order in the Mobility segment. In the medium and long term, it continues to anticipate average growth rates of 10% over the coming years.

"These expectations are not only supported by market data, but also by our numerous development projects, which are based on specific customer requirements," says Rothweiler. "By focusing on the Industrial, Medical and Mobility growth markets, we will continue to participate in trends such as Industry 4.0, autonomous driving and the miniaturization of medical technology in the future and exploit these opportunities both quantitatively and qualitatively. To this end, we will strengthen sales and expand our internationalization, initially with a continued focus on North America and China. We will continue to grow on this basis."