Embargo : Brussels, May 9, 2011 at 6:0 p.m.
Excellent operating result (EUR 197 million):
+79% compared to the first quarter of 2010
+37% compared to the fourth quarter of 2010
Group sales (EUR 1,670 million) improved by 23%compared to the first quarter of 2010, resulting from an increase in volumes (+10%) and sales price (+12%) in Group activities
Group operating result (EUR 197 million) balanced between the two Sectors:
Chemicals (EUR 101 million): record result (+55% compared to the first quarter of 2010); the increase in sales prices and volumes compensated for higher energy costs
Plastics (EUR 116 million): +108% compared to the first quarter of 2010, primarily thanks to an increase in sales volumes in both Specialty Polymers and Vinyls
Net result from continuing operations (EUR 98 million) improved compared to the first quarter of 2010 (EUR 12 million)
New organizational structure (Horizon) in place since April 1, 2011
Agreement announced on April 4 for launch of a friendly cash offer for Rhodia; closing expected in August 2011.
More
To obtain additional information :
Solvay Investor Relations, SOLVAY S.A., Tél. 32-2-509.60.16, E-mail :
investor.relations@solvay.com
SOLVAY is an international industrial Group active in Chemistry. It offers a broad range of products and solutions
that contribute to improving quality of life. The Group is headquartered in Brussels and employs about 14,800 people in 40 countries. In 2010, its consolidated sales amounted to 7.1 billion EUR. Solvay is listed on the NYSE Euronext at Brussels (NYSE Euronext: SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLBt.BR). Details are available at
www.solvay.com.
