Philips Healthcare reported a 4% increase in comparable sales in its 2012 fourth quarter, which included low-single-digit growth in its imaging systems and clinical informatics activities.
For the period (end-December 31), Philips had sales of 2.918 billion euros ($3.933 billion U.S.), compared with 2.724 billion euros ($3.671 billion U.S.) in the fourth quarter last year. The quarter featured high-single-digit growth in its home healthcare solutions business and mid-single-digit growth in its customer services operations.
Currency-comparable order intake also grew 4%, including mid-single-digit growth in imaging systems and low-single-digit growth in patient care and clinical informatics. By region, North American orders dropped 4%, while European orders grew 11% and growth geographies climbed 7%.
Earnings before interest, taxes, and amortization (EBITA) reached 434 million euros ($585.1 million U.S.), up from 409 million euros ($551.3 million U.S.) in the fourth quarter of 2011. The increase was driven by sales growth, nonmanufacturing cost reductions, and gross margin improvements in imaging systems and customer services, according to the company.
For the year, Philips produced 9.983 billion euros ($13.458 billion U.S.) in sales, up 6% on a comparable basis from the 8.852 billion euros ($11.933 billion U.S.) in sales booked in 2011.
