Strategic Businesses Make Solid
Contribution to Earnings
Outlook for fiscal 2005 and beyond
Kureha's financial forecasts for fiscal 2005
are shown in the following table:
Summary
of consolidated financial forecasts
| |
(¥ million,
except where stated) |
| |
Fiscal
2005 (Forecasts) |
Fiscal
2004 |
Change
(%) |
| Sales |
140,000 |
130,400 |
7.4 |
| Operating
income |
11,500 |
10,255 |
12.1 |
| Recurring
income |
10,500 |
9,705 |
8.2 |
| Net
income |
5,200 |
4,467 |
16.4 |
| Earnings
per share (EPS) (¥) |
27.99 |
23.41 |
19.6 |
|
In addition to the key growth areas mentioned
above, Kureha also has a range of promising new
products under development, including:
Polyglycolic acid (PGA) resin for carbonated
drink containers and beer bottles
The commercialization of PGA resin for use in
carbonated drink containers and beer bottles
is now a priority for the company. Polyethylene
terephthalate (PET) bottles that contain a PGA
layer have an extended shelf life. Hence, the
product has the potential to revolutionize the
soft drink industry. Kureha will conduct test
marketing of PGA and commercial production is
expected to commence in stages from fiscal 2006.
The company is targeting PGA utilization by soft
drink manufacturers around the world.
Solar control material
Solar control material is a type of filter that,
when applied to a window, absorb heat from the
sun, thereby reducing room temperature without
the need to darken the room with blinds or curtains.
Kureha is currently developing applications for
this technology alongside glass and automobile
parts manufacturers.
Anti HIV agent
Pre-clinical tests have been completed and the
company is now considering partnerships with
major foreign manufacturers. Kureha has the option
of either licensing or selling the technology.
Aggressive new mid-term business plan
launched
Kureha's longer-term financial targets are outlined
in the new mid-term plan, announced in April
2005. The focus of the plan is to revitalize
the business by repositioning Kureha as a leading
specialty products company, strategically focusing
on high value-added growth products.
"Kureha Corporation" - A new corporate
direction
To mark the adoption of a strategic new corporate
direction, the company has decided to change
its name to Kureha Corporation from Kureha Chemical
Industry Co., Ltd., effective October 1, 2005.
The name change reflects the company's determination
to both strengthen and expand the Kureha brand,
as it aims to excel in a range of strategic business
areas.
Details of Kureha's new mid-term business plan,
name change and new corporate identity are outlined
in the press release, "Kureha Corporation"
- New Name, New Mission, New Focus, January
17, 2005. |
