Slimmed-down Pilkington of the UK has started the year well despite slumps in some markets, according to chairman Nigel Rudd.
The St Helens-based international manufacturer of float and automotive gl…
Slimmed-down Pilkington of the UK has started the year well despite slumps in some markets, according to chairman Nigel Rudd. The St Helens-based international manufacturer of float and automotive glass has benefited from lower costs after shedding thousands of jobs worldwide, he said. “In building products, prices in Europe have been relatively flat and sales to date are similar to last year, on a lower cost base, but the market is now picking up.” He said that with Brazil, Argentina and Chile in recession, South American building product sales were 10% down on last year, but prices were stable. In North America construction activity stayed strong and prices firm, while Australia started well. In its automotive glass division, sales volumes in Europe were good, shipments to main customers in North America strong and the Australian market buoyant. But automotive glass plants in Brazil were still working below capacity. “In light of our experience to date and provided conditions in our main markets remain stable, I am confident Pilkington will progress this year,” Rudd added.