The Bossard Group, Switzerland, reported sales for the first half of CHF 321 million (US$359.5 million), an increase of 3 percent year-over-year. As reported in local currencies, sales grew 5.6 percent.In the second quarter, group sales increased 2.8 percent (5.5 percent in local currencies) to CHF 159.6 million (US$178.8 million).

In Europe, half-year sales rose to CHF 208.2 million (US$233.2 million), up 7.1 percent in local currency. In America, sales were CHF 65.7 million (US$73.6 million), down 5.6 percent in local currency. This revenue decline is due primarily to weaker demand from a major customer. In Asia, sales were CHF 47.1 million (US$52.7 million), up 17.6 percent in local currency. Growth in Asia is largely the result of business from new customers.