The German trading group, Metro Group closed the first half of 2012 with a loss in the millions consisting of three digits. The restructuring costs and value adjustments for the sale of it's subsidiary, Makro UK were responsible for the loss. Managing Director Olaf Koch did make clear that he is satisfied with the development of the operational activities: "We have made it up the mountain despite the steep climb: our focus on sustainable growth is paying off," he states. The corporate strategy is now showing 'the first positive effects in the results'.
In comparison to last year, the company profits increased by 2.0 percent, despite the unfavourable circumstances, to 31.5 billion Euro in the first six months. Profits of 12 billion Euro were achieved in Germany which was 1.7% more than last year. The rest of Western Europe didn't do as well, where profits decreased by 1.7 percent to 9.6 billion Euro. Giving up Saturn France played a very important role. A profit surplus of 2.5 percent was gained in Eastern Europe where the achieved profit rose to 8.2 billion Euro. The profits in Asia and Africa are also on the rise with 27 percent to 1.8 billion Euro. The trading directors calculate, that despite the unremitting unfavourable economic conditions, they will see a further increase in sales for the rest of the year.