02-12-2010
Financial information for the year ended december 31, 2009
Michelin’s main financial metrics strengthened in a recessionary environment
€14.8 billion in net sales, down a limited 9.8%
Operating margin before non-recurring items up slightly to 5.8% €1.4 billion in positive free cash flow
€862 million in operating income before non-recurring items, compared with €920 million in 2008, reflecting the combined impact of:
The steep 14.8% decline in unit sales.
The underutilization of production capacity.
These factors were partly offset by:
The €318 million reduction in raw materials costs.
The Group’s firm pricing policy and the resistance of the MICHELIN brand.
The structural improvement in competitiveness.
Net income of €104 million, despite a high €412 million in restructuring costs.
Record low 55% gearing, thanks in particular to tight management of working capital and capex.
Confirmed target of reporting positive free cash flow in 2010.
Proposed 2009 dividend of €1.00, subject to approval at the Annual Shareholders Meeting of May 7, 2010.