• Sales € 11.4 billion, + 5 % at actual rates, + 10 % in constant currency
• EBIT € 1.6 billion, + 11 % at actual rates, + 17 % in constant currency
• Net income € 410 million, + 24 % at actual rates, + 28 % in constant currency

• All financial targets met or exceeded
• Double-digit EBIT growth in all business segments
• Strengthened market position through targeted acquisitions
• 15^th consecutive dividend increase

 

Dividend increase of ~15 % per share proposed
Based on the excellent financial results the Management Board will propose to the Supervisory Board a dividend increase of ~15 % to € 0.66 per ordinary share (2006: € 0.57) and € 0.67 per preference share (2006: € 0.58). The corresponding total dividend distribution amounts to € 103.2 million (2006: € 88.8 million).

 

Positive outlook for 2008: Substantial sales and earnings growth expected
For 2008, Fresenius Group projects further improvements in its financial results: Group sales are expected to grow by 8 to 10 % in constant currency. Net income is expected to increase by 10 to 15 % in constant currency. All business segments are expected to contribute to this growth.

Investments in property, plant and equipment and in intangible assets are planned to increase from € 705 million in 2007 to ~€ 750 million.

 

Strong sales growth across all business segments and regions
Group sales increased by 10 % in constant currency and by 5 % at actual rates to € 11,358 million (2006: € 10,777 million). Organic sales growth was 6 %. Acquisitions contributed a further 6 %. Divestitures reduced sales growth by 2 %. Currency translation had a negative impact of 5 %. This is mainly attributable to the average US dollar rate depreciating 9 % against the Euro.

Sales growth in the business segments was affected as follows:

In Europe sales grew by 7 % in constant currency with organic sales growth contributing 5 %. In North America sales grew by 10 % in constant currency due to the full-year Renal Care Group consolidation and an organic growth rate of 5 %.

Strong growth rates were achieved in the emerging markets with organic growth of 9 % in Asia-Pacific, 10 % in Latin America and 26 % in Africa.

 

Excellent earnings growth and strong margin improvement
Group EBITDA increased by 15 % in constant currency and by 10 % at actual rates to € 2,030 million (2006: € 1,843 million). Group operating income (EBIT) grew by 17 % in constant currency and by 11 % at actual rates to € 1,609 million (2006: € 1,444 million). The Group's EBIT margin improved by 80 basis points to 14.2 % (2006: 13.4 %).

Group net interest was € -368 million (2006: € -395 million, including one-time expenses of € 30 million for the early refinancing of Group debt).

The tax rate was 36.1 % (2006: 39.5 %; adjusted for the tax expense related to the divestiture of US dialysis clinics: 37.2 %).

Minority interest increased to € 383 million (2006: € 305 million), of which 92 % was attributable to the minority interest in Fresenius Medical Care.

Group net income grew strongly by 28 % in constant currency and by 24 % at actual rates to € 410 million (2006: € 330 million, including one-time expenses of € 22 million). Earnings per ordinary share were € 2.64 and earnings per preference share were € 2.65 (2006 adjusted for the February 2007 share split: ordinary share € 2.15, preference share € 2.16). This represents an increase of 23 % for both share classes.

 

Investments in property, plant and equipment at high level
Fresenius Group spent € 705 million for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (2006: € 600 million). The increase is mainly attributable to the business segments Fresenius Medical Care and Fresenius Helios. Acquisition spending was € 613 million (2006: € 3,714 million). All business segments strengthened their market position through targeted acquisitions.

 

Strong cash flow
Operating cash flow increased by 23 % to € 1,296 million (2006: € 1,052 million). Key driver was the strong increase in earnings. Cash flow margin was 11.4 % (2006: 9.8 %). Cash flow before acquisitions and dividends increased by 31 % to € 630 million (2006: € 481 million). Free cash flow after acquisitions (€ 392 million) and dividends (€ 205 million) was € 33 million (2006: € -2,909 million).

 

Solid balance sheet structure: Leverage ratio improved
Fresenius Group's total assets increased by 8 % in constant currency and by 2 % at actual rates to € 15,324 million (December 31, 2006: € 15,024 million). Current assets increased by 5 % to € 4,291 million (December 31, 2006: € 4,106 million). Non-current assets were € 11,033 million (December 31, 2006: € 10,918 million).

Shareholders' equity including minority interest grew by 6 % to € 6,059 million (December 31, 2006: € 5,728 million). The equity ratio (including minority interest) was 39.5 % (December 31, 2006: 38.1 %).

Group debt decreased by 3 % at actual rates to € 5,699 million (December 31, 2006: € 5,872 million). In constant currency, Group debt increased by 3%. The net debt/EBITDA ratio improved to 2.6, well below the level of 3.0 as of December 31, 2006.

 

Number of employees increased
As of December 31, 2007, Fresenius increased the number of its employees by 9 % to 114,181 (December 31, 2006: 104,872). The increase is mainly attributable to the business segments Fresenius Medical Care and Fresenius Helios.

 

Fresenius Biotech
Fresenius Biotech develops innovative therapies with trifunctional antibodies for the treatment of cancer. In the field of polyclonal antibodies, Fresenius Biotech has successfully marketed ATG-Fresenius S for many years. ATG-Fresenius S is an immunosuppressive agent used to prevent and treat graft rejection following organ transplantation.

Following the successful completion of the phase II/III study with Removab^® in the indication malignant ascites, Fresenius Biotech dispatched the marketing authorization application to the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) in December 2007. The company applies for the EU authorization of Removab^® for the intraperitoneal treatment of malignant ascites in patients with epithelial cancers where no standard therapy is available or no longer feasible. EMEA started the scientific evaluation of the dossier at the end of January 2008. In additional phase II studies Fresenius Biotech is focusing on the use of Removab^® for solid tumors in the indications ovarian cancer and gastric cancer.

For the future marketing of Removab^® in the USA and Japan, Fresenius Biotech is in discussions with potential partners.

Phase II studies with the antibody Rexomun® (ertumaxumab) in the indication breast cancer are ongoing.

In 2007, Fresenius Biotech's operating income (EBIT) was € -50 million (2006: € -45 million). For 2008, Fresenius Biotech expects an EBIT of approximately € -50 million.

 

The Business Segments

Fresenius Medical Care
Fresenius Medical Care is the world's leading provider of services and products for patients with chronic kidney failure. As of December 31, 2007, Fresenius Medical Care was serving 173,863 patients in 2,238 dialysis clinics.

• Sales increased by 14 % to US$ 9.7 billion
• Net income well above guidance
• Outlook 2008: Sales growth of more than 7 % and net income growth of 12 to 15 % expected

In 2007, Fresenius Medical Care achieved excellent sales growth of 14 % to US$ 9,720 million (2006: US$ 8,499 million). This was mainly driven by organic growth of 6 % and by the full-year consolidation of Renal Care Group. Sales in dialysis care increased by 13 % to US$ 7,213 million (2006: US$ 6,377 million). In dialysis products, sales grew by 18 % to US$ 2,507 million (2006: US$ 2,122 million).

In North America sales increased by 11 % to US$ 6,663 million (2006: US$ 6,025 million). Sales outside North America ("International" segment) grew by 24 % (in constant currency: 15 %) to US$ 3,057 million (2006: US$ 2,474 million). Strong sales growth in constant currency was achieved in Europe (+9 %), Latin America (+14 %), and the Asia-Pacific region (+40 %).

EBIT rose by 20 % to US$ 1,580 million (2006: US$ 1,318 million). The EBIT margin was 16.3 % (2006: 15.5 %). Net income increased by 34 % to US$ 717 million (2006: US$ 537 million, including one-time expenses of US$ 37 million).

In November 2007, Fresenius Medical Care announced the acquisition of Renal Solutions, Inc. (RSI). With the RSI transaction, Fresenius Medical Care is acquiring a key technology for the expansion of home hemodialysis.

For 2008, Fresenius Medical Care expects to achieve revenue of more than US$ 10.4 billion, an increase of more than 7 %. Net income is expected to be between US$ 805 million and US$ 825 million, an increase of 12 % to 15 %.

For further information, please see Fresenius Medical Care's Investor News at www.fmc-ag.com.

 

Fresenius Kabi
Fresenius Kabi offers infusion therapies and clinical nutrition for seriously and chronically ill patients in the hospital and out-patient environments. The company is also a leading provider of transfusion technology products.

• Sales exceed 2 billion euros for the first time
• Targeted acquisitions strengthen market position
• Outlook 2008: Strong sales growth and EBIT margin of around 16.5 %

Fresenius Kabi increased sales by 7 % to € 2,030 million (2006: € 1,893 million). The company achieved excellent organic growth of 8 %, at the upper end of the guidance of 6 to 8 %. Acquisitions contributed 1 % to sales. Currency translation effects had a negative impact of 2 %. This was mainly due to the depreciation of currencies in South Africa, China, Mexico and Canada.

Organic sales growth in Europe (excluding Germany) was 5 %. In Germany organic sales growth was 2 %. In the Asia-Pacific region Fresenius Kabi achieved significant organic sales growth of 22 %. Organic sales growth in Latin America was 9 % and in other regions 10 %.

Fresenius Kabi continued its excellent earnings growth in 2007. EBIT grew by 14 % to € 332 million (2006: € 291 million). The EBIT margin improved by 100 basis points to 16.4 % (2006: 15.4 %). Fresenius Kabi reported strong growth in net income of 28 % to € 183 million (2006: € 143 million, including one-time expenses for early debt refinancing of € 11 million).

In the fourth quarter of 2007, Fresenius Kabi announced acquisitions to strengthen its business activities especially in the fields of clinical nutrition and intravenously administered generic drugs (I.V. drugs). Fresenius Kabi acquired from Nestlé S.A. the enteral nutrition businesses in France (Novartis Nutrition) and in Spain (Nestlé España). In addition, Fresenius Kabi acquired the Chilean company Laboratorio Sanderson S.A. and the Italian company Ribbon S.r.L. Aggregate sales of the three acquired businesses was about € 128 million in 2007.

Fresenius Kabi expects to continue its positive financial performance in 2008. The company targets sales growth in constant currency of 12 to 15 %. Organic growth is expected to contribute 7 % to this target. Strong growth is anticipated in particular from the Asia-Pacific and Latin America regions. Further, Fresenius Kabi forecasts an EBIT margin of around 16.5 %. It is anticipated that the recent acquisitions will initially contribute to Fresenius Kabi's EBIT at a margin below par, also due to amortization of intangible assets. Adjusted for the recent acquisitions, Fresenius Kabi's EBIT margin is expected to progress into the range of 16.5 to 17 %.

 

Fresenius ProServe
As from January 1, 2008, the former business segment Fresenius ProServe has been replaced by the two business segments Fresenius Helios and Fresenius Vamed. These two businesses had previously made up the business segment Fresenius ProServe. The financial results of Fresenius Helios and Fresenius Vamed are already presented separately on the following pages for the full-year 2007.

The financial performance at Fresenius ProServe was as follows:

Sales grew by 5 % to € 2,268 million (2006: € 2,155 million). Organic growth was 3 %. EBIT increased by 18 % to € 181 million (2006: € 154 million). The EBIT margin improved to 8.0 % (2006: 7.1 %).

Organic sales growth guidance of 2 - 3 % and EBIT projection of > € 170 million was fully achieved.

The subsidiaries Pharmaplan and Pharmatec were divested and deconsolidated as from January 1, 2007, and June 30, 2007, respectively.

 

Fresenius Helios
Fresenius Helios is one of the largest private hospital operators in Germany. The HELIOS Kliniken Group owns 60 hospitals, including five maximum care hospitals in Erfurt, Berlin-Buch, Wuppertal, Schwerin and Krefeld. HELIOS treats about 500,000 inpatients per year at its clinics and has a total of approximately 17,200 beds.

• Sales and earnings substantially increased
• Expansion in the German hospital market continued
• Outlook 2008: Sales of more than 2 billion euros expected

Fresenius Helios increased sales by 10 % to € 1,841 million (2006: € 1,673 million), and achieved very good organic growth of 3 %. Acquisitions contributed 9 %, divestitures reduced sales growth by 2 %.

EBIT increased by 17 % to € 155 million (2006: € 133 million). The EBIT margin improved by 50 basis points to 8.4 %. Fresenius Helios achieved this very good result despite a number of external negative factors: the increase in value-added tax, wage tariff increases, and the 0.5 % budget cut for the stabilization of public health costs all affected earnings. Net income improved by 8 % to € 64 million (2006: € 59 million).

In the fourth quarter of 2007, Fresenius Helios acquired 74.9 % of Krefeld Municipal Hospitals (Krefeld and Hüls). Both hospitals together have approximately 3,300 employees and achieved sales of about € 175 million in 2006. The hospitals are consolidated in the Group's balance sheet as of December 31, 2007.

The outlook for the full year 2008 remains very positive. Fresenius Helios expects to achieve sales of more than € 2,050 million. EBIT is projected to increase to € 160 to 170 million, despite the initially negative contribution of the Krefeld Municipal Hospitals.

 

Fresenius Vamed
Fresenius VAMED offers engineering and services for hospitals and other health care facilities.

• Order intake and order backlog at all-time high
• Acquisition in the service business for hospitals
• Outlook 2008: Sales and EBIT growth of 5 – 10 % expected

Fresenius Vamed achieved sales growth of 4 % to € 408 million (2006: € 392 million). The project business generated sales of € 259 million (2006: € 249 million), sales in the service business was € 149 million (2006: € 143 million), an increase of 4 % in each segment.

EBIT was € 26 million (2006: € 23 million). The EBIT margin improved to 6.4 % (2006: 5.9 %). Net income increased by 15 % to € 23 million (2006: € 20 million).

Order intake in the project business grew by 17 % to € 395 million (2006: € 337 million). In the fourth quarter of 2007, order intake rose by 70 % compared to the same quarter of the previous year and reached € 173 million. Order backlog as of December 31, 2007, was € 510 million (December 31, 2006: € 387 million).

In February 2008, Fresenius Vamed announced that it had signed an agreement to acquire the hospital planning, consulting and service company HERMED in Germany. Both regionally and strategically, HERMED fits perfectly to the business of VAMED. VAMED concentrates on larger hospitals whereas HERMED focuses on smaller and medium-sized health care facilities. HERMED achieved sales of around € 12 million in 2007.

In 2008, Fresenius Vamed expects to achieve sales growth and an increase in EBIT of 5 to 10 %.

 

Analyst Meeting and Video Webcast
As part of the publication of the results for fiscal year 2007, an analyst meeting will be held at the Fresenius headquarters in Bad Homburg on February 20, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. CET (7.30 a.m. EST). All investors are cordially invited to follow the conference in a live broadcast over the Internet at www.fresenius.com / Investor Relations / Presentations. Following the meeting, a recording of the conference will be available as video-on-demand.

 

Annual report
The annual report 2007 will be available from March 11, 2008 at www.fresenius.com / Investor Relations / Financial reports.

• Sales € 2.8 billion, +1 % at actual rates, +8 % in constant currency
• EBIT € 377 million, -1 % at actual rates, +7 % in constant currency
• Net income € 100 million, +8 % at actual rates, +13 % in constant currency

 

• Excellent growth in constant currency
• Currency impact based on translational effects
• Significant progress in generic I.V. drug strategy
• All business segments fully on track - Guidance for 2008 confirmed

 

Outlook for 2008 confirmed
Based on the Group's strong first quarter financial results Fresenius fully confirms its positive outlook for 2008: Group sales are expected to grow by 8 to 10 % in constant currency. Net income is expected to increase by 10 to 15 % in constant currency. All business segments are expected to contribute to this growth.

 

Sales growth of 8 % in constant currency
Group sales increased by 8 % in constant currency and by 1 % at actual rates to € 2,798 million (Q1 2007: € 2,767 million). Organic sales growth was 5 %. Acquisitions contributed a further 4 %. Divestitures reduced sales growth by 1 %. Currency translation had a negative impact of 7 %. This is mainly attributable to the average US dollar/Euro rate depreciating 14 % from Q1 2007.

Sales growth in the business segments was as follows:

In Europe sales grew by 13 % in constant currency with organic sales growth contributing 6 %. In North America sales grew by 1 % in constant currency. Organic growth was 2 %. Strong growth rates were achieved in the emerging markets with organic growth of 11 % in Asia-Pacific and 16 % in Latin America.

 

Excellent net income growth
Group EBITDA increased by 8 % in constant currency and by 1 % at actual rates to € 483 million (Q1 2007: € 479 million). Group operating income (EBIT) grew by 7 % in constant currency and decreased by 1 % at actual rates to € 377 million (Q1 2007: € 380 million). The Group's EBIT margin was 13.5 % (Q1 2007: 13.7 %).

Group net interest decreased to € -84 million (Q1 2007: € -95 million). This is mainly attributable to lower average interest rates at Fresenius Medical Care and currency translation effects.

The Group tax rate was 35.2 % (Q1 2007: 36.1 %).

Minority interest increased slightly to € 90 million (Q1 2007: € 89 million), of which 92 % was attributable to the minority interest in Fresenius Medical Care.

Group net income grew by 13 % in constant currency and by 8 % at actual rates to € 100 million (Q1 2007: € 93 million). Earnings per ordinary share and per preference share were € 0.64 (Q1 2007: ordinary share € 0.60, preference share € 0.60). This represents an increase of 7 % for both share classes.

 

Substantial investments in growth
Fresenius Group spent € 155 million for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (Q1 2007: € 140 million). Acquisition spending was € 215 million (Q1 2007: € 155 million).

 

Sustainable cash flow development
Operating cash flow was € 278 million (Q1 2007: € 287 million). The cash flow margin was 9.9 % (Q1 2007: 10.4 %). Given increased net capital expenditure of € 162 million (Q1 2007: € 132 million), cash flow before acquisitions and dividends was € 116 million (Q1 2007: € 155 million). Free cash flow after net acquisitions (€ 158 million) and dividends (€ 5 million) was € -47 million (Q1 2007: € 88 million).

 

Solid balance sheet
Fresenius Group's total assets increased by 3 % in constant currency and decreased by 1 % at actual rates to € 15,149 million (December 31, 2007: € 15,324 million). Current assets increased by 4 % in constant currency and by 1 % at actual rates to € 4,319 million (December 31, 2007: € 4,291 million). Non-current assets were € 10,830 million (December 31, 2007: € 11,033 million).

Shareholders' equity including minority interest increased by 3 % in constant currency and decreased by 1 % at actual rates to € 5,988 million (December 31, 2007: € 6,059 million). The equity ratio (including minority interest) was 39.5 % (December 31, 2007: 39.5 %).

Group debt decreased by 2 % at actual rates to € 5,598 million (December 31, 2007: € 5,699 million). In constant currency, Group debt increased by 2 %. As of March 31, 2008, the net debt/EBITDA ratio was 2.6 (December 31, 2007: 2.6).

 

Number of employees increased
As of March 31, 2008, Fresenius increased the number of its employees by 2 % to 116,203 (December 31, 2007: 114,181). The growth was mainly atttributable to Fresenius Kabi and Fresenius Medical Care.

 

Fresenius Biotech
Fresenius Biotech develops innovative therapies with trifunctional antibodies for the treatment of cancer. In the field of polyclonal antibodies, Fresenius Biotech has successfully marketed ATG-Fresenius S for many years. ATG-Fresenius S is an immunosuppressive agent used to prevent and treat graft rejection following organ transplantation.

Studies with the antibodies Removab^® and Rexomun^® in various indications are ongoing in Europe and the US.

Fresenius Biotech's EBIT was € -9 million (Q1 2007: € -11 million). For 2008, Fresenius Biotech expects an EBIT of approximately € -50 million.


The Business Segments

Fresenius Medical Care
Fresenius Medical Care is the world's leading provider of services and products for patients with chronic kidney failure. As of March 31, 2008, Fresenius Medical Care was treating 177,059 patients in 2,297 dialysis clinics.

• Strong start into the year - in line with expectations
• Outlook 2008 fully confirmed

Fresenius Medical Care achieved sales growth of 8 % to US$ 2,512 million (Q1 2007: US$ 2,321 million). Organic growth was 5 %. Currency translation effects had a positive impact of 4 %. Sales in dialysis care increased by 5 % to US$ 1,844 million (Q1 2007: US$ 1,760 million). In dialysis products, sales grew by 19 % to US$ 667 million (Q1 2007: US$ 560 million).

In North America sales increased by 2 % to US$ 1,668 million (Q1 2007: US$ 1,637 million). Dialysis services revenue increased by 1 % (3 % adjusted for the divestiture of the perfusion business in spring 2007) to US$ 1,495 million. Average revenue per treatment in the US was US$ 326 in the first quarter (Q4 2007: US$ 325), based on an increase in underlying reimbursement rates and an increase in EPO utiliziation. Sales outside North America ("International" segment) grew by 23 % (10 % in constant currency) to US$ 844 million (Q1 2007: US$ 684 million). Strong sales growth in constant currency was achieved in Europe (+11 %) and Latin America (+14 %).

EBIT rose by 7 % to US$ 389 million (Q1 2007: US$ 365 million) resulting in an EBIT margin of 15.5 % (Q1 2007: 15.7 %). This reflects the increased expenditures for corporate research and development activitites and the expansion in the International dialysis services business. The EBIT margin in North America increased by 60 basis points to 16.4 %, supported by improved underlying reimbursement rates, dialysis services cost containment and a continued strong performance of renal products and PhosLo. In the International segment, the EBIT margin decreased by 60 basis points to 17.0 % mainly due to the growth in the dialysis care business through an increased number of De Novo clinics and associated start-up costs.

Net income increased by 16 % to US$ 186 million (Q1 2007: US$ 160 million).

For 2008, Fresenius Medical Care fully confirms its outlook and expects to achieve revenue of more than US$ 10.4 billion, an increase of more than 7 %. Net income is expected to be between US$ 805 million and US$ 825 million, an increase of 12 % to 15 %.

For further information, please see Fresenius Medical Care's Investor News at www.fmc-ag.com.

 

Fresenius Kabi
Fresenius Kabi offers infusion therapies and clinical nutrition for seriously and chronically ill patients in the hospital and out-patient environments. The company is also a leading provider of transfusion technology products.

• Excellent sales growth of 15 % in constant currency
• Outlook 2008 fully confirmed

Fresenius Kabi increased sales by 15 % in constant currency and by 13 % at actual rates to € 545 million (Q1 2007: € 483 million). Organic growth was excellent at 8 %. Net acquisitions contributed a further 7 % to sales. Currency translation effects had a negative impact of 2 %. This was mainly due to the depreciation of currencies in Great Britain, South Africa and China.

Organic sales growth in Europe (excluding Germany) was 6 %. In Germany organic sales growth was 1 %. In the Asia-Pacific region Fresenius Kabi again achieved significant organic sales growth of 28 %. Organic sales growth in Latin America was 10 % and in other regions 6 %.

EBIT grew by 13 % to € 87 million (Q1 2007: € 77 million). The EBIT margin was 16.0 % (Q1 2007: 15.9 %). Net income grew by 10 % to € 46 million (Q1 2007: € 42 million).

Fresenius Kabi fully confirms the outlook for 2008: The company targets sales growth in constant currency of 12 to 15 %. Organic growth is expected to contribute around 7 % to this target. Further, Fresenius Kabi forecasts an EBIT margin of around 16.5 %.

On April 20, 2008, Fresenius Kabi announced the acquisition of 73.3 % of the share capital of the Indian company Dabur Pharma Ltd. Dabur is a leading supplier of oncology generics. With this acquisition, Fresenius Kabi strengthens its position in I.V. drugs. Dabur achieved sales of more than € 41 million with generic oncology drugs and APIs in fiscal year 2006/2007 (April 1, 2006 to March 31, 2007).

 

Fresenius Helios
Fresenius Helios is one of the largest private hospital operators in Germany. The HELIOS Kliniken Group owns 60 hospitals, including five maximum care hospitals in Berlin-Buch, Erfurt, Krefeld, Schwerin and Wuppertal. HELIOS treats about 500,000 inpatients per year at its clinics and has a total of approximately 17,400 beds.

• Positive financial performance of established clinics; Krefeld and Hüls with expected negative earnings contribution
• Outlook 2008 fully confirmed

Fresenius Helios increased sales by 16 % to € 509 million (Q1 2007: € 439 million). Acquisitions contributed 11 % to overall sales growth. Organic growth was 4 %.

EBIT grew strongly by 19 % to € 38 million (Q1 2007: € 32 million) due to the very good financial performance of the established clinics. The first-time consolidation of HELIOS Klinikum Krefeld and the HELIOS Klinik Hüls had the expected negative impact on earnings. Nevertheless, the EBIT margin increased to 7.5 % (Q1 2007: 7.3 %). Net income improved by 36 % to € 15 million (Q1 2007: € 11 million).

Sales at the established clinics rose by 4 % to € 461 million. EBIT improved by 31 % to € 42 million. The EBIT margin was 9.1 % (Q1 2007: 7.3 %). The acquired clinics (consolidation < 1 year) achieved sales of € 48 million and an EBIT of € -4 million.

Fresenius Helios fully confirms its outlook for 2008: The company expects to achieve sales of more than € 2,050 million. EBIT is projected to increase to € 160 to 170 million, including the negative contribution of the clinics in Krefeld and Hüls.

 

Fresenius Vamed
Fresenius Vamed offers engineering and services for hospitals and other health care facilities.

• Sales and earnings performance fully in line with expectations
• Outlook 2008 fully confirmed

In the first quarter of 2008, Fresenius Vamed achieved sales growth of 1 % to € 74 million (Q1 2007: € 73 million). The project business generated sales of € 35 million (Q1 2007: € 37 million), sales in the service business were € 39 million (Q1 2007: € 36 million).

EBIT was € 4 million (Q1 2007: € 5 million). The EBIT margin was 5.4 % (Q1 2007: 6.8 %). Net income was € 4 million (Q1 2007: € 4 million).

Order intake in the project business grew strongly by 89 % to € 125 million (Q1 2007: € 66 million). This was driven by obtaining the order for the planning and construction of the Tauern Spa World in Kaprun/Austria of about € 80 million. Fresenius Vamed will be also responsible for the operational management of Tauern Spa World following the completion of the project. Order backlog as of March 31, 2008 reached a new all-time high of € 595 million, an increase of 17 % (December 31, 2007: € 510 million).

Fresenius Vamed fully confirms its outlook for 2008 and expects to grow both sales and EBIT by 5 to 10 %.

 

Analyst Conference Call and Audio Webcast
As part of the publication of the results for the first quarter of 2008, a conference call will be held on April 30, 2008 at 2.00 p.m. CEDT (8.00 a.m. EDT). All investors are cordially invited to follow the conference call in a live broadcast over the Internet at www.fresenius.com/Investor Relations/Presentations. Following the call, a recording will be available.

 

Quarterly financial report
The report for the first quarter 2008 will be published on May 8, 2008 (US GAAP) and May 15, 2008 (IFRS) on our website www.fresenius.com/Investor Relations/Financial Reports.

Below, Fresenius provides an overview on the financial results of the first half of 2008:

Based on preliminary figures, Group sales increased 9 % in constant currency and by 2 % at actual rates to € 5,710 million. Group EBIT rose by 8 % in constant currency. At actual rates, EBIT was at previous year's level of € 780 million. Group net income grew by 13 % in constant currency and by 8 % at actual rates to € 211 million.

Below are the financial results by business segment, based on preliminary figures:

Fresenius Medical Care achieved sales growth of 10 % to US$ 5,177 million. EBIT rose 8 % to US$ 816 million. Net income grew by 17 % to US$ 395 million.

Fresenius Kabi achieved an excellent sales growth of 14 % to € 1,121 million. EBIT increased by 14 % to € 181 million. The EBIT margin was 16.1 % (H1 2007: 16.1 %).

Fresenius Helios achieved strong sales and EBIT growth. Sales increased by 17 % to € 1,040 million. EBIT grew by 22 % to € 83 million.

Fresenius Vamed achieved sales growth of 11 % to € 177 million. EBIT was € 9 million.

The final figures for the first half of 2008 and the outlook for the full year will be provided on July 30, 2008, as originally scheduled.

Key figures of the business segments (US GAAP, preliminary)

• Sales € 5.7 billion, +2 % at actual rates, +9 % in constant currency
• EBIT € 781 million, +0 % at actual rates, +8 % in constant currency
• Net income € 212 million, +9 % at actual rates, +14 % in constant currency

 

• Excellent sales and earnings growth in constant currency
• Strong financial results in all business segments with high organic sales growth
• All business segments fully on track to achieve full-year guidance

Compared to the preliminary figures announced on July 17, 2008, Group EBIT improved by € 1 million to € 781 million and net income by € 1 million to € 212 million.

Outlook for 2008 confirmed
Based on the Group's excellent financial results in the first half Fresenius fully confirms its positive outlook for 2008: Group sales are expected to grow by 8 to 10 % in constant currency. Net income is expected to increase by 10 to 15 % in constant currency. All business segments are expected to contribute to this growth.

Sales growth of 9 % in constant currency
Group sales increased by 9 % in constant currency and by 2 % at actual rates to € 5,710 million (H1 2007: € 5,592 million). Organic sales growth was 6 %. Acquisitions contributed a further 4 %. Divestitures reduced sales growth by 1 %. Currency translation had a negative impact of 7 %. This is mainly attributable to the average US dollar rate depreciating 15 % against the euro in the first half of 2008 compared to previous year's period.

Sales growth in the business segments was as follows:

In Europe sales grew by 15 % in constant currency with organic sales growth of 8 %. In North America constant currency and organic sales growth were each 3 %. Strong organic growth rates were achieved in the emerging markets reaching 14 % in Asia-Pacific and 16 % in Latin America.

 

Strong earnings growth
Group EBITDA increased by 10 % in constant currency and by 2 % at actual rates to € 998 million (H1 2007: € 977 million). Group operating income (EBIT) grew by 8 % in constant currency to € 781 million (H1 2007: € 780 million). At actual rates EBIT was on previous year's level. The Group's EBIT margin was 13.7 % (H1 2007: 13.9 %).

Group net interest improved to € -167 million (H1 2007: € -185 million) mainly due to lower average interest rates of Fresenius Medical Care's debt and currency translation effects.

The Group tax rate was 34.9 % (H1 2007: 36.0 %).

Minority interest increased slightly to € 188 million (H1 2007: € 186 million), of which 93 % was attributable to the minority interest in Fresenius Medical Care.

Group net income grew by 14 % in constant currency and by 9 % at actual rates to € 212 million (H1 2007: € 195 million). Earnings per ordinary share increased to € 1.36 and earnings per preference share increased to € 1.37 (H1 2007: ordinary share € 1.26, preference share € 1.27). This represents an increase of 8 % for both share classes.

 

Continued investments in growth
Fresenius Group spent € 332 million for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (H1 2007: € 302 million). Acquisition spending was € 292 million (H1 2007: € 223 million).

 

Sustainable cash flow development
Operating cash flow decreased to € 481 million (H1 2007: € 553 million) due to the higher working capital requirements. The cash flow margin was 8.4 % (H1 2007: 9.9 %). Cash flow before acquisitions and dividends was € 149 million (H1 2007: € 258 million) mainly due to net capital expenditure increasing to € 332 million (H1 2007: € 295 million). Free cash flow after net acquisitions (€ 224 million) and dividends (€ 218 million) was € -293 million (H1 2007: € -94 million).

 

Solid balance sheet
Fresenius Group's total assets increased by 5 % in constant currency and by 1 % at actual rates to € 15,491 million (December 31, 2007: € 15,324 million). Current assets increased by 8 % in constant currency and by 5 % at actual rates to € 4,505 million (December 31, 2007: € 4,291 million). Non-current assets were € 10,986 million (December 31, 2007: € 11,033 million).

Shareholders' equity including minority interest increased by 4 % in constant currency to € 6,073 million (December 31, 2007: € 6,059 million). The equity ratio (including minority interest) was 39.2 % (December 31, 2007: 39.5 %).

Group debt increased by 2 % at actual rates to € 5,805 million (December 31, 2007: € 5,699 million). In constant currency, Group debt increased by 5 %. As of June 30, 2008, the net debt/EBITDA ratio was 2.7 (December 31, 2007: 2.6).

 

Number of employees increased
As of June 30, 2008, Fresenius increased the number of its employees by 3 % to 117,453 (December 31, 2007: 114,181). The growth was mainly attributable to Fresenius Kabi and Fresenius Medical Care.

Fresenius Biotech
Fresenius Biotech develops innovative therapies with trifunctional antibodies for the treatment of cancer. In the field of polyclonal antibodies, Fresenius Biotech has successfully marketed ATG-Fresenius S for many years. ATG-Fresenius S is an immunosuppressive agent used to prevent and treat graft rejection following organ transplantation.

Studies with the antibodies Removab^® and Rexomun^® in various indications are ongoing in Europe and the US.

Orphan Drug Designation was achieved in Switzerland for the antibody Removab in the indications malignant ascites, gastric cancer and ovarian cancer. The Swiss Agency for therapeutic products (Swiss Medic) grants the Orphan Drug Designation to medicinal products used for rare, life-threatening or chronic diseases that affect no more than five in every 10,000 people in Switzerland and for which no sufficient effective treatment exists.

The registration process for Removab in Europe in the indication malignant ascites is proceeding according to plan. Fresenius Biotech dispatched the marketing authorization application to the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) in December 2007.

Fresenius Biotech's EBIT was € -20 million (H1 2007: € -20 million). For 2008, Fresenius Biotech expects an EBIT of approximately € -50 million.


The Business Segments

Fresenius Medical Care
Fresenius Medical Care is the world's leading provider of services and products for patients with chronic kidney failure. As of June 30, 2008, Fresenius Medical Care was treating 179,340 patients in 2,318 dialysis clinics.

• Strong growth in all regions
• Outlook 2008 fully confirmed

Fresenius Medical Care achieved sales growth of 10 % to US$ 5,177 million (H1 2007: US$ 4,725 million). Organic growth was 6 %. Currency translation effects had a positive impact of 4 %. Sales in dialysis care increased by 6 % to US$ 3,769 million (H1 2007: US$ 3,556 million). In dialysis products sales grew by 20 % to US$ 1,408 million (H1 2007: US$ 1,169 million).

In North America sales increased by 3 % to US$ 3,382 million (H1 2007: US$ 3,297 million). Dialysis services revenue increased by 2 % to US$ 3,028 million. Average revenue per treatment in the US was US$ 327 in the second quarter of 2008 (Q2 2007: US$ 327). In the first quarter of 2008, average revenue per treatment in the US was US$ 326. The sequential improvement in the revenue per treatment was due to an increase in EPO utilization. Sales outside North America ("International" segment) grew by 26 % (12 % in constant currency) to US$ 1,795 million (H1 2007: US$ 1,428 million). Strong sales growth in constant currency was achieved in Asia-Pacific (+11 %), Europe (+12 %) and Latin America (+16 %).

EBIT rose by 8 % to US$ 818 million (H1 2007: US$ 756 million) resulting in an EBIT margin of 15.8 % (H1 2007: 16.0 %). This development mainly reflected higher research and development expenses. Reduced reimbursement rates for EPO and lower utilization of EPO as well as start-up cost for new clinics were offset by increases in underlying reimbursement rates, cost containment and continued strong performance of renal products including PhosLo.

Net income increased by 17 % to US$ 397 million (H1 2007: US$ 339 million).

For 2008, Fresenius Medical Care confirms its outlook and expects to achieve revenue of more than US$ 10.4 billion, an increase of more than 7 %. Net income is projected to be between US$ 805 million and US$ 825 million, an increase of 12 % to 15 %.

For further information, please see Fresenius Medical Care's Investor News at www.fmc-ag.com.

Fresenius Kabi
Fresenius Kabi offers infusion therapies and clinical nutrition for seriously and chronically ill patients in the hospital and out-patient environments. The company is also a leading provider of transfusion technology products.

• Excellent organic growth of 10 %
• Outlook 2008 fully confirmed

Fresenius Kabi increased sales by 14 % to € 1,121 million (H1 2007: € 986 million). Organic sales growth was 10 %. Net acquisitions contributed a further 7 % to sales. Currency translation effects had a negative impact of 3 %. This was mainly due to the depreciation of currencies in Great Britain, South Africa and China.

Organic sales growth in Europe (excluding Germany) was 7 %. In Germany organic sales growth was 2 %. In the Asia-Pacific region Fresenius Kabi again achieved significant organic sales growth of 27 %. Organic sales growth in Latin America was 9 % and in other regions 11 %.

EBIT grew by 14 % to € 181 million (H1 2007: € 159 million). The EBIT margin was 16.1 % (H1 2007: 16.1 %). Net income grew by 11 % to € 97 million (H1 2007: € 87 million).

Fresenius Kabi fully confirms the outlook for 2008: The company targets sales growth in constant currency of 12 to 15 %. Further, Fresenius Kabi forecasts an EBIT margin of around 16.5 %.

On July 7, 2008, Fresenius SE announced that Fresenius Kabi has signed definitive agreements to acquire APP Pharmaceuticals, Inc. APP is a leading manufacturer of intravenously administered generic drugs (I.V. generics) in North America. The acquisition is an important step in Fresenius Kabi's growth strategy. Through the acquisition of APP, Fresenius Kabi enters the U.S. pharmaceuticals market and achieves a leading position in the global I.V. generics market. This North American platform provides further attractive growth opportunities for Fresenius Kabi's existing product portfolio.

 

Fresenius Helios
Fresenius Helios is one of the largest private hospital operators in Germany. The HELIOS Kliniken Group owns 60 hospitals, including five maximum care hospitals in Berlin-Buch, Erfurt, Krefeld, Schwerin and Wuppertal. HELIOS treats about 500,000 inpatients per year at its clinics and has a total of approximately 17,500 beds.

• Excellent sales and earnings growth
• Outlook 2008 fully confirmed

Fresenius Helios increased sales by 17 % to € 1,040 million (H1 2007: € 890 million). Acquisitions contributed 11 % to overall sales growth. Organic growth was strong at 5 %^*. This performance was driven by the significant growth in hospital admissions compared to the same period last year.

The integration of the HELIOS clinics Krefeld and Hüls made significant progress in the second quarter. The strong increase in hospital admissions of about 9 % in the first half of 2008 compared to the first half of 2007 reflects the operating progress achieved. The new Krefeld hospital construction plans were finalized in May 2008, setting the stage for an efficient state-of-the art facility.

EBIT grew strongly by 22 % to € 83 million (H1 2007: € 68 million) due to the very good financial performance of the established clinics. The EBIT margin increased to 8.0 % (H1 2007: 7.6 %). Net income improved by 42 % to € 37 million (H1 2007: € 26 million).

Sales at the established clinics rose by 5 %^* to € 945 million. EBIT improved by 31 % to € 89 million. The EBIT margin was 9.4 % (H1 2007: 7.6 %). The acquired clinics (consolidation < 1 year) achieved sales of € 95 million and an EBIT of € -6 million.

Fresenius Helios fully confirms its outlook for 2008: The company expects to achieve sales of more than € 2,050 million. EBIT is projected to increase to € 160 to 170 million, including the negative contribution from the HELIOS clinics Krefeld and Hüls.

^* growth rate on a like for like basis

 

Fresenius Vamed
Fresenius Vamed offers engineering and services for hospitals and other health care facilities.

• Strong sales growth of 11 %; order intake doubled
• Outlook 2008 fully confirmed

In the first half of 2008, Fresenius Vamed achieved sales growth of 11 % to € 177 million (H1 2007: € 160 million). Acquisitions contributed 4 % to sales growth whereas divestitures had a negative impact of 4 %. Sales in the project business rose by 14 % to € 99 million (H1 2007: € 87 million). Sales in the service business improved by 7 % to € 78 million (H1 2007: € 73 million). Organic sales growth was 11 %.

EBIT was € 9 million (H1 2007: € 9 million). The EBIT margin was 5.1 % (H1 2007: 5.6 %). Net income increased by 13 % to € 9 million (H1 2007: € 8 million).

Order intake in the project business doubled to € 170 million (H1 2007: € 84 million). In the second quarter of 2008, an order of approximately € 25 million contributed to this growth. The order consists of the extension of a hospital in Oberndorf near Salzburg, Austria. Furthermore, Fresenius Vamed received their first order from Sri Lanka with a volume of about € 8 million regarding the supply of medical technical equipment for 25 hospitals. Order backlog as of June 30, 2008 was € 573 million, an increase of 12 % (December 31, 2007: € 510 million).

Fresenius Vamed fully confirms its outlook for 2008 and expects to grow both sales and EBIT by 5 to 10 %.

 

Analyst Conference Call and Audio Webcast
As part of the publication of the results for the first half and the second quarter of 2008, a conference call will be held on July 30, 2008 at 2.00 p.m. CEDT (8.00 a.m. EDT). All investors are cordially invited to follow the conference call in a live broadcast over the Internet at www.fresenius.com/Investor Relations/Presentations. Following the call, a recording will be available.

 

Quarterly financial report
The report for the first half and the second quarter of 2008 will be published on August 6, 2008 (US GAAP) and August 13, 2008 (IFRS) on our website www.fresenius.com/Investor Relations/Financial Reports.

• Sales € 8.8 billion, +4 % at actual rates, +11 % in constant currency
• Adjusted EBIT €1.2 billion, +2 % at actual rates, +9 % in constant currency
• Adjusted net income € 324 million, +9 % at actual rates, +14 % in constant currency
   
• Strong sales and earnings growth in all business segments
• Acquisition of APP Pharmaceuticals finalized, financing steps successfully implemented
• 2008 sales outlook raised, earnings outlook fully confirmed

 

The Group's US GAAP financial statements as of September 30, 2008 include several special items relating to the acquisition of APP Pharmaceuticals. The single-largest of those items is the full depreciation of acquired in-process R&D activities, leading to a non-cash charge of € 175 million. Under IFRS, acquired in-process R&D is capitalized and amortized over the expected life of the developed products. IFRS and US GAAP financial statements therefore differ significantly. The IFRS approach will be adopted by US GAAP as from 2009.

Adjusted earnings represent the Group's business operations in the reporting period. Including special items, EBIT is € 1,053 million and net income is € 153 million (see reconciliation on page 3). Under IFRS, EBIT is € 1,236 million and net income is € 321 million.

 

2008 sales outlook raised, earnings outlook fully confirmed
Based on the Group's excellent revenue development in the first three quarters Fresenius raises its sales outlook for 2008. Fresenius now expects to achieve sales growth of 9.5 to 10.5 % in constant currency. Previously, Fresenius expected sales growth of 8 to 10 % in constant currency. Net income is expected to increase by 10 to 15 % in constant currency. The outlook excludes the APP acquisition and related special items.

 

Sales growth of 11 % in constant currency
Group sales increased by 11 % in constant currency and by 4 % at actual rates to € 8,761 million (Q1-3/2007: € 8,390 million). Organic sales growth was 7 %. Acquisitions contributed a further 4 %. APP was consolidated as of September 1, 2008. Currency translation had a negative impact of 7 %. This is mainly attributable to the average US dollar rate depreciating 13 % against the euro in the first three quarters of 2008 compared to previous year's period.

Sales growth in the business segments was as follows:

 

In Europe, sales grew by 15 % in constant currency with organic sales growth of 9 %. In North America, constant currency growth was 5 % and organic sales growth was 4 %. Strong organic growth rates were achieved in the emerging markets, reaching 14 % in Asia-Pacific and 18 % in Latin America.

 

Strong earnings growth
Adjusted Group EBITDA increased by 11 % in constant currency and by 4 % at actual rates to € 1,546 million (Q1-3/2007: € 1,485 million). Adjusted Group operating income (EBIT) grew by 9 % in constant currency and by 2 % at actual rates to € 1,209 million (Q1-3/2007: € 1,184 million). The Group's adjusted EBIT margin was 13.8 % (Q1-3/2007: 14.1 %). Group EBIT (including special items) was € 1,053 million.

Group net interest improved slightly to € -271 million (Q1-3/2007: € -279 million). Lower average interest rates on liabilities of Fresenius Medical Care and currency translation effects had a positive impact. This was partially offset by incremental debt relating to the APP Pharmaceuticals and Dabur Pharma acquisitions.

The adjusted Group tax rate was 34.9 % (Q1-3/2007: 36.0 %). The Group tax rate including special items was 41.2%.

Minority interest increased slightly to € 287 million (Q1-3/2007: € 281 million), of which 93 % was attributable to the minority interest in Fresenius Medical Care.

Adjusted Group net income grew by 14 % in constant currency and by 9 % at actual rates to € 324 million (Q1-3/2007: € 298 million). Adjusted earnings per ordinary share increased to € 2.06 and adjusted earnings per preference share increased to € 2.07 (Q1-3/2007: ordinary share € 1.92, preference share € 1.93). This represents an increase of 12 % for both share classes in constant currency.

 

Reconciliation to adjusted earnings
The table below reconciliates adjusted EBIT and adjusted net income to earnings according to US GAAP:

  

^* Purchase accounting adjustments are indicative as the purchase price allocation is still provisional and related assumptions may change. The special items are included in the "Corporate/Other" segment.
^**In addition, € 67 million transaction-related financing expenses have been capitalized and will be depreciated over the life of the respective facilities.

Acquired in-process R&D activities have to be fully depreciated at the closing under currently valid US GAAP accounting principles.

The inventory step-up reflects the excess of fair value over book value of acquired semi-finished and finished products. The amount is amortized in line with the sale of the respective products.

The foreign exchange gain arises from US-Dollar strength increasing the value of a US$-denominated inter-company loan to Fresenius Kabi Pharmaceuticals Holdings, Inc.

Both the Mandatory Exchangeable Bonds and the Contingent Value Rights are viewed as liabilities and therefore recognized with their fair redemption value. Valuation changes will lead to gains or expenses on a quarterly basis until maturity of the instruments.

One-time financing expenses include commitment and funding fees for the bridge facility as well as the full depreciation of financing costs related to APP's Syndicated Facility from 2007.

Group net income (including special items) was € 153 million or € 0.97 per ordinary share and € 0.98 per preference share.

 

Continued investments in growth
Fresenius Group spent € 502 million for property, plant and equipment (Q1-3/2007: € 481 million). Acquisition spending was € 3,760 million (Q1-3/2007: € 246 million), primarily relating to the acquisition of APP Pharmaceuticals.

 

Sustainable cash flow development
Operating cash flow decreased to € 736 million (Q1-3/2007: € 912 million), mainly due to an increase of inventories and trade accounts receivables. The cash flow margin reached 8.4 % (Q1-3/2007: 10.9 %). Consequently, and due to net capital expenditure increasing to € 496 million (Q1-3/2007: € 461 million), Cash flow before acquisitions and dividends decreased to € 240 million (Q1-3/2007: € 451 million). Dividends of € 235 million were financed out of cash flow. Acquisitions were financed through new debt and equity.

 

Balance sheet impacted by APP acquisition
Fresenius Group's total assets increased by 29 % in constant currency and by 31 % at actual rates to € 20,114 million (December 31, 2007: € 15,324 million). 73 % of this increase is due to the acquisition of APP Pharmaceuticals. Current assets increased by 17 % in constant currency and at actual rates to € 5,018 million (December 31, 2007: € 4,291 million). Non-current assets grew by 34 % in constant currency and by 37 % at actual rates to € 15,096 million (December 31, 2007: € 11,033 million).

Shareholders' equity including minority interest increased by 10 % in constant currency and by 11 % at actual rates to € 6,750 million (December 31, 2007: € 6,059 million). The equity ratio (including minority interest) was 33.6 % (December 31, 2007: 39.5 %).

Group debt increased to € 8,588 million (December 31, 2007: € 5,699 million), mainly due to the acquisition of APP Pharmaceuticals. As of September 30, 2008, the net debt/EBITDA ratio was 3.7 (December 31, 2007: 2.6), pro forma the acquisition of APP Pharmaceuticals and excluding special items. In constant currency, the net debt/EBITDA ratio was 3.5.

The acquisition financing for APP Pharmaceuticals was successfully implemented: Mandatory Exchangeable Bonds issued in July and a capital increase executed in August provided aggregate proceeds of more than US$ 1,320 million. On October 10, the syndication of Fresenius' Senior Secured Credit Facilities was completed. Substantial oversubscription facilitated the increase of the targeted amount by US$ 500 million to US$ 2,950 million. As a consequence, Fresenius was able to reduce the Bridge Facility, which has a maturity of 7 years, utilized with US$ 1,300 million at the time of closing of the acquisition, by half to US$ 650 million.

 

Number of employees increased
As of September 30, 2008, Fresenius increased the number of its employees by 6 % to 121,288 (December 31, 2007: 114,181). The increase was mainly driven by Fresenius Medical Care and Fresenius Kabi due to the acquisitions of APP Pharmaceuticals and Dabur Pharma.

 

Fresenius Biotech
Fresenius Biotech develops innovative therapies with trifunctional antibodies for the treatment of cancer. In the field of polyclonal antibodies, Fresenius Biotech has successfully marketed ATG-Fresenius S for many years. ATG-Fresenius S is an immunosuppressive agent used to prevent and treat graft rejection following organ transplantation.

The registration process for Removab in Europe in the indication malignant ascites is proceeding according to plan. Fresenius Biotech dispatched the marketing authorization application to the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) in December 2007 and expects a recommendation from EMEA's Committee for Human Medicinal Products in early 2009.

Fresenius Biotech's EBIT was € -32 million (Q1-3/2007: € -33 million). For 2008, Fresenius Biotech expects an EBIT of € -45 million to € -50 million.


 

The Business Segments

Fresenius Medical Care
Fresenius Medical Care is the world's leading provider of services and products for patients with chronic kidney failure. As of September 30, 2008, Fresenius Medical Care was treating 181,937 patients in 2,349 dialysis clinics.

• Strong nine months results - Excellent revenue growth in all regions
• Outlook 2008 fully confirmed

Fresenius Medical Care achieved sales growth of 10 % to US$ 7,890 million (Q1-3/2007: US$ 7,151 million). Organic growth was 7 %. Currency translation effects had a positive impact of 3%. Sales in dialysis care increased by 7 % to US$ 5,753 million (Q1-3/2007: US$ 5,357 million). In dialysis products sales grew by 19 % to US$ 2,136 million (Q1-3/2007: US$ 1,794 million).

In North America sales increased by 4 % to US$ 5,153 million (Q1-3/2007: US$ 4,957 million). Dialysis services revenue increased by 3 % to US$ 4,615 million. Average revenue per treatment for the U.S. clinics increased to US$ 333 in the third quarter of 2008. This represents an increase of US$ 6 per treatment compared to the third quarter of 2007 as well as sequentially from the second quarter of 2008. The improvement in the revenue per treatment was primarily due to increased commercial revenue rates. Sales outside North America ("International" segment) grew by 25 % (13 % in constant currency) to US$ 2,737 million (Q1-3/2007: US$ 2,194 million). Strong sales growth in constant currency was achieved in Asia-Pacific (+11 %), Europe (+13 %) and Latin America (+18 %).

EBIT rose by 8 % to US$ 1,240 million (Q1-3/2007: US$ 1,152 million) resulting in an EBIT margin of 15.7 % (Q1-3/2007: 16.1 %). This development mainly reflected higher research and development expenses and start-up costs for new clinics. Reduced reimbursement rates for EPO, lower utilization levels of EPO as well as increased costs for the anticoagulant drug Heparin were offset by increases in underlying reimbursement rates and strong contributions from renal products.

Net income increased by 16 % to US$ 603 million (Q1-3/2007: US$ 520 million).

For 2008, Fresenius Medical Care confirms its outlook and expects to achieve revenue of more than US$ 10.4 billion, an increase of more than 7 %. Net income is projected to be between US$ 805 million and US$ 825 million, an increase of 12 % to 15 %.

For further information, please see Fresenius Medical Care's Investor News at www.fmc-ag.com.

Fresenius Kabi
Fresenius Kabi offers infusion therapies and clinical nutrition for seriously and chronically ill patients in the hospital and out-patient environments. The company is also a leading provider of transfusion technology products.

• Excellent organic sales growth of 9 %
• Sales outlook 2008 at upper end of guidance, earnings outlook fully confirmed (pre-APP acquisition)

Fresenius Kabi increased sales by 16 % to € 1,734 million (Q1-3/2007: € 1,494 million). Organic sales growth was 9 %. Net acquisitions contributed a further 10 % to sales. This includes the acquisitions of APP Pharmaceuticals and Dabur Pharma which were both consolidated as from September 1, 2008. Currency translation effects had a negative impact of 3 %. This was mainly due to the depreciation of currencies in Great Britain, South Africa, Korea and China.

Organic sales growth in Europe (excluding Germany) was 7 %. In Germany, organic sales growth was 3 %. In the Asia-Pacific region, Fresenius Kabi achieved high organic sales growth of 23 %. Organic sales growth in Latin America was 11 % and in other regions 10 %.

EBIT grew by 20 % to € 290 million (Q1-3/2007: € 242 million). EBIT includes € 2 million amortization of APP intangible assets. The EBIT margin increased to 16.7 % (Q1-3/2007: 16.2 %). Net income grew by 13 % to € 149 million (Q1-3/2007: € 132 million).

To allow accurate tracking of the company's underlying performance, Fresenius Kabi's guidance for 2008 does not comprise any effects of the APP acquisition. On this basis, Fresenius Kabi fully confirms its outlook: The company now targets sales growth in constant currency at the upper end of the previously announced range of 12 to 15 %. Fresenius Kabi forecasts an EBIT margin of about 16.5 %. Inclusion of APP Pharmaceuticals would increase both metrics.

On September 10, 2008, Fresenius SE closed the acquisition of APP Pharmaceuticals, Inc. APP is a leading manufacturer of intravenously administered generic drugs (I.V. generics) in North America. The acquisition is an important step in Fresenius Kabi's growth strategy. Through the acquisition of APP, Fresenius Kabi enters the U.S. pharmaceuticals market and achieves a leading position in the global I.V. generics market. This North American platform provides further attractive growth opportunities for Fresenius Kabi's existing product portfolio.

APP Pharmaceuticals' revenues increased by 20 % to US$ 544 million (Q1-3/2007: US$ 453 million). Adjusted EBITDA was US$ 217 million. APP has modified its 2008 outlook provided in July. This is mainly the result of lowered sales expectations for Heparin. The company now expects sales in the range of US$ 765 to 785 million (previously US$ 800 to 820 million), an increase of 19 to 22 % compared to US$ 647 million in 2007. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to rise 24 to 28 % to between US$ 315 to 325 million (previously US$ 325 to 350 million), compared to US$ 253 million last year. The new guidance is still slightly ahead of Fresenius Kabi's acquisition business plan.

All special items relating to the acquisition of APP Pharmaceuticals are included in "Corporate/Other" in the segment reporting.


Fresenius Helios
Fresenius Helios is one of the largest private hospital operators in Germany. The HELIOS Kliniken Group owns 61 hospitals, including five maximum care hospitals in Berlin-Buch, Erfurt, Krefeld, Schwerin and Wuppertal. HELIOS treats about 530,000 in-patients per year at its clinics and operates a total of approximately 17,700 beds.

• Continued excellent sales and earnings growth
• Sales outlook 2008 raised, EBIT guidance confirmed at the upper end of range

Fresenius Helios increased sales by 16 % to € 1,568 million (Q1-3/2007: € 1,348 million). Acquisitions contributed 11 % to overall sales growth. Organic growth remained at a strong 5 %^*, driven by a significant increase in hospital admissions.

EBIT grew by 15 % to € 127 million (Q1-3/2007: € 110 million) due to the very good business operations of the established clinics. The EBIT margin was 8.1 % (Q1-3/2007: 8.2 %). Net income improved by 34 % to € 59 million (Q1-3/2007: € 44 million).

At the established clinics, sales rose by 5 %^* to € 1,423 million. EBIT improved by 24 % to € 136 million. The EBIT margin increased to 9.6 % (Q1-3/2007: 8.2 %). The acquired clinics (consolidation < 1 year) achieved sales of € 145 million and an EBIT of € -9 million.

The Mariahilf hospital in Hamburg was consolidated as from August 1, 2008.

Fresenius Helios raises the sales outlook for 2008: The company expects to achieve sales of € 2,050 to 2,100 million. Previously, Fresenius Helios expected sales of more than € 2,050 million for 2008. EBIT is projected to reach the upper end of the announced range of € 160 to 170 million, including the negative contribution from the hospitals Krefeld and Hüls.

HELIOS has undertaken a further important step for the independent and transparent publication of treatment quality: together with six hospital operators comprising about 100 clinics with approximately 1 million patients treated a Germany-wide quality improvement initiative has been launched. All hospital operators are committed to standardized quality measurement of the treatment processes at the clinics and to publish the respective results. The commitment also includes peer review processes. Within the framework of these processes, internal and external experts examine treatment results not meeting the initiative's quality standards. Improvement measures are discussed jointly with the respective clinic. The aim of this analysis is to systematically improve the procedures and structures of the treatment processes. This is the first joint initiative of hospital operators for quality improvement in Germany and reflects HELIOS' efforts to improve the transparency of quality indicators in the German health care industry. 

^* growth rate on a like for like basis

 

Fresenius Vamed
Fresenius Vamed offers engineering and services for hospitals and other health care facilities.

• Strong sales and earnings growth
• Outlook 2008 raised

Fresenius Vamed achieved excellent sales growth of 24 % to € 290 million (Q1-3/2007: € 234 million). Acquisitions contributed 4 % whereas de-consolidations had a negative impact of 4 %. Organic sales growth was 24 %. Sales in the project business rose by 34 % to € 167 million (Q1-3/2007: € 125 million). Sales in the service business increased by 13 % to € 123 million (Q1-3/2007: € 109 million).

EBIT increased by 27 % to € 14 million (Q1-3/2007: € 11 million). The EBIT margin was 4.8 % (Q1-3/2007: 4.7 %). Net income also increased by 27 % to € 14 million (Q1-3/2007: € 11 million).

Order intake in the project business increased by 9 % to € 242 million (Q1-3/2007: € 222 million). In the third quarter of 2008, VAMED received - among others - two orders worth about € 25 million each. One is for the construction of a new post-acute care clinic in Schruns, Austria. Secondly, VAMED has signed a contract for construction and equipment of a medical training centre in Gabon. The facility is adjacent to the regional hospital of Libreville which was constructed and is managed by VAMED.

Order backlog as of September 30, 2008 was € 569 million, an increase of 12 % (December 31, 2007: € 510 million).

Fresenius Vamed raises its outlook for 2008 and expects to grow sales by 15 to 20 %. EBIT is expected to grow by more than 10 %. Previously, both sales and EBIT were expected to grow by 5 to 10 %.

 

Analyst Conference Call and Audio Webcast
As part of the publication of the results for the first three quarters and the third quarter of 2008, a conference call will be held on November 4, 2008 at 2.00 p.m. CEDT (8.00 a.m. EST). All investors are cordially invited to follow the conference call in a live broadcast over the Internet at www.fresenius.com / Investor Relations / Presentations. Following the call, a recording will be available.

 

Quarterly financial report
The report for the first three quarters and the third quarter of 2008 will be published on November 10, 2008 (US GAAP) and November 14, 2008 (IFRS) on our website www.fresenius.com/Investor Relations/Financial Reports. 

• Fresenius Helios reiterates sales target of € 2.3 billion for 2010
• Fresenius Vamed sees mid-term annual organic sales growth of 5 – 10 %

Bad Homburg. Fresenius Helios and Fresenius Vamed are in an excellent position for further sales and earnings growth despite an ongoing global economic downturn. Fresenius Helios and Fresenius Vamed, business segments of Fresenius SE, are hosting their first Capital Market Day in Berlin today to inform investors and analysts about strategies, growth opportunities and business activities. Fresenius Helios and Fresenius Vamed were created as new business segments in early 2008 from previous business segment Fresenius ProServe. The new organizational structure set the stage for the focused expansion of the two business segments and underlines the growing importance of the hospital market for the Fresenius Group. Fresenius Helios is one of Germany's three biggest hospital operators. Fresenius Vamed is a global leader in engineering and services for hospitals and other health care facilities.

Fresenius Helios and Fresenius Vamed expect further profitable growth despite the current global economic decline. The business segments operate in a mostly non-cyclical sector, where demand for high-quality and efficient medical care is growing, driven by demographic changes in developing and emerging countries. Fresenius Helios sees very good growth opportunities in the German hospital market and reiterates its sales target of € 2.3 billion in 2010. Fresenius Vamed expects to achieve organic sales growth of 5 – 10 % p.a. in the mid-term. In the first nine months of 2008, sales increased by 24 % to € 290 million mainly driven by the project business.

"We are very satisfied with the financial results and the growth perspectives of Fresenius Helios and Fresenius Vamed," says Ulf Mark Schneider, Chairman of the Management Board of Fresenius SE. "Both companies raised their 2008 financial targets. This confirms that their proven business models are prevailing during this difficult economic climate. Both are quality leaders in the market and offer excellence in healthcare and medicine."

Fresenius Helios
HELIOS operates 57 clinics, including five maximum care hospitals. Fifty-six are in Germany and one is in Switzerland. HELIOS treats about 550,000 inpatients annually and operates about 17,300 beds. In the first nine months of 2008, sales increased by 16 % to € 1.568 billion and EBIT grew by 15 % to € 127 million.

"The hospital market offers good growth prospects for the future," says Dr. Francesco De Meo, CEO of business segment Fresenius Helios. "Presently we see several privatization projects, and we will participate where we see a good strategic fit. In our negotiations with previous hospital owners, we have learned that our commitment to the highest medical quality and transparency helps us win projects."

HELIOS remains on track for its five-year goal, announced in 2005, to acquire € 800 million of hospital revenues between 2006 and 2010. At about € 450 million currently, the company firmly expects to reach that goal and to meet its sales target of € 2.3 billion in 2010.

HELIOS' business model is primarily based on growth through acquisitions and restructuring of acquired hospitals. HELIOS improves the acquired hospitals' profitability by improving operations and medical performance along with cost savings and investment in infrastructure and provides medical care of the highest quality. According to HELIOS' restructuring plan, hospitals are expected to achieve an EBITDA margin of 15 % within five years following acquisition.


Fresenius Vamed
Founded in 1982, VAMED has completed about 450 projects in 47 countries and is a global leader in providing planning, construction and management of complex health care facilities.

VAMED generates around 60 percent of its sales from its project business, which includes consulting, project development, project management and construction. About 40 % of sales are generated from the service business, which includes maintenance, technical, commercial and infrastructure services for health care facilities as well as operating these facilities in certain markets. VAMED offers a complete value chain to support hospitals efficiently and successfully at each level of their life cycle.

"We are well positioned to meet our targets this year," says Dr. Ernst Wastler, CEO of business segment Fresenius Vamed. "Order intake developed strongly and we see good opportunities for continued growth, strengthened by our integrated approach as contracts in our project business lead to contracts in our service business and vice versa."

VAMED is active in Europe, Africa, Asia-Pacific and Latin America and is successful in established and emerging markets. In established markets, medical facilities face challenges to increase their efficiency. VAMED offers them competitive hospital management, new technologies, outsourcing of technical, commercial and infrastructural services and public-private-partnerships. The company helps hospitals in established markets to concentrate on their core competency, the care of patients. In emerging markets, VAMED offers comprehensive know-how for the development of healthcare infrastructure, planning and construction of hospitals and a complete range of services, including total management.

In the first nine months of 2008, Fresenius Helios and Fresenius Vamed contributed 21 % to sales and 22 % to earnings after tax of Fresenius Group.

Fresenius will hold a live webcast of its Capital Market Day starting 8.30 a.m. today. The webcast is available at www.fresenius.com / investor relations / presentations. A replay will be available shortly after the event finishes.

• Sales € 10.8 billion, + 37 % at actual rates, + 37 % in constant currency
• EBIT € 1,444 million, + 49 % at actual rates, + 50 % in constant currency
• Net income € 330 million, + 49 % at actual rates, + 49 % in constant currency

• Sales exceeding the € 10 billion mark and EBIT exceeding the € 1 billion mark for the first time
• Excellent sales and earnings growth in all business segments
• Further margin improvements in all business segments achieved
• 15 % increase in dividend per share proposed
• Strong cash flow supports rapid de-levering

 

14th consecutive dividend increase proposed
2006 was the most successful year in the Company's history. Based on the Group's excellent financial results, the Management Board will propose to the Supervisory Board a dividend increase of 15 % to € 0.57 per ordinary share (2005, adjusted for the share split: € 0.49) and to € 0.58 per preference share (2005, adjusted for the share split: € 0.50). The total dividend distribution is expected to be € 88.8 million (2005: € 75.8 million).

  

Positive outlook for 2007
For 2007, Fresenius Group projects further improvements in sales and earnings. Group sales are expected to grow by 8 to 10 % in constant currency. Net income is expected to increase by 20 to 25 % in constant currency. We anticipate further margin improvements of all business segments to contribute to this growth.

Investments in property, plant and equipment and in intangible assets are planned to increase from € 600 million in 2006 to € 600 to 700 million.


Strong sales growth across all business segments and regions
Group sales increased by 37 % to € 10,777 million in 2006 (2005: € 7,889 million). Organic growth was 9 %. Acquisitions, in particular Renal Care Group and HELIOS Kliniken, contributed 29 %. Divestitures had a -1 % effect on sales. Currency translation effects had no impact.

Strong sales growth was achieved in the core markets of North America and Europe. In North America, sales grew significantly due to the Renal Care Group consolidation and an excellent organic growth rate of 9 %. In Europe, the substantial sales increase was mainly driven by the consolidation of HELIOS Kliniken. Organic growth in Europe was 5 %. Excellent growth rates were achieved in the emerging markets with organic growth of 19 % in Asia-Pacific, 22 % in Latin America and 18 % in Africa.

Sales contribution of the three business segments:

Fresenius ProServe's increased sales contribution is the result of the consolidation of HELIOS Kliniken.

 

Excellent earnings growth
Group operating income (EBIT) increased by 49 % at actual rates and by 50 % in constant currency to € 1,444 million (2005: € 969 million). The Group EBIT margin improved to 13.4 % (2005: 12.3 %). Operating income for the full year 2006 includes a gain of € 32 million from the divestitures of dialysis clinics in the USA. The sale was a condition of the US Federal Trade Commission for the approval of the Renal Care Group acquisition. Operating income for the full year 2006 also includes a total of € 44 million for one-time expenses, e.g. for the integration of Renal Care Group, as well as for expenses related to the stock option accounting change.

Group net interest was € -395 million (2005: € -203 million). The increase was primarily driven by the debt financing of the Renal Care Group acquisition. Net interest also includes one-time expenses of € 30 million associated with the early refinancing of Group debt.

The tax rate was 39.5 % (2005: 38.9 %). It was substantially influenced by the tax expense associated with the divestiture of the dialysis clinics in the USA as the goodwill attributable to the divested clinics is not considered for tax purposes. Excluding this effect the tax rate was 37.2 %, well within our guidance of 36 to 38 %.

Minority interest was € 305 million (2005: € 246 million), of which 93 % was attributable to the minority interest in Fresenius Medical Care.

Group net income grew strongly by 49 % at actual rates as well as in constant currency to € 330 million (2005: € 222 million). Net income includes a total of € 29 million for one-time expenses, primarily for the early refinancing of debt, for the integration of Renal Care Group, and for expenses related to the stock option accounting change.

Earnings per ordinary share were € 2.15 (2005, adjusted for the share split: € 1.76) and earnings per preference share* were € 2.16 (2005, adjusted for the share split: € 1.77). This is an increase of 22 % for both share classes. The average number of shares grew to 153,006,012 in 2006.

^* In accordance with SFAS 128 („Earnings per Share") the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the fiscal years 2006 and 2005 have been adjusted retrospectively by the increased weighted average number of shares outstanding.

Capital expenditure at high level
Fresenius Group spent € 600 million for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (2005: € 353 million). Acquisition spending increased to € 3,714 million mainly due to the Renal Care Group acquisition (2005: € 1,894 million).


Strong cash flow
Operating cash flow increased by 35 % to € 1,052 million (2005: € 780 million). Key drivers were the strong increase in earnings and further improvements in working capital management. Cash flow before acquisitions and dividends was € 481 million (2005: € 449 million). The acquisition of Renal Care Group was entirely debt-financed.


Solid balance sheet structure
Total assets increased by 30 % to € 15,024 million (December 31, 2005: € 11,594 million). In constant currency, total assets grew by 38 %. The substantial increase is mainly related to the consolidation of the Renal Care Group. Current assets increased by 16 % to € 4,106 million (December 31, 2005: € 3,531 million). Non-current assets were € 10,918 million (December 31, 2005: € 8,063 million), an increase of 35 %.

Shareholders' equity including minority interest grew by 12 % to € 5,728 million (December 31, 2005: € 5,130 million), driven by the very good earnings development. Given the debt financing of the Renal Care Group acquisition, the equity ratio (including minority interest) decreased to 38.1 % (December 31, 2005: 44.2 %).

Group debt increased to € 5,872 million (December 31, 2005: € 3,502 million) due to the financing of the Renal Care Group acquisition.

As of March 31, 2006, following the closing of the Renal Care Group acquisition, the net debt/EBITDA ratio was at 3.5. Given the excellent earnings growth and a strong cash flow the net debt/EBITDA ratio improved significantly to 3.0 as of December 31, 2006 (December 31, 2005: 2.3).


Employees
As of December 31, 2006, the Group had 104,872 employees (December 31, 2005: 91,971). The increase of 12,901 employees is primarily due to the acquisitions of Renal Care Group and HUMAINE Kliniken.


Fresenius Biotech
Fresenius Biotech develops innovative therapies with trifunctional antibodies for the treatment of cancer as well as cell therapies for the treatment of the immune system. In the field of polyclonal antibodies, Fresenius Biotech has successfully marketed ATG-Fresenius S for many years. ATG-Fresenius S is an immunosuppressive agent used to prevent and treat graft rejection following organ transplantation.

In December 2006, first results of a phase II/III pivotal study on malignant ascites in patients with ovarian cancer were published, including treatment data of 129 patients. The results showed a clear advantage of the therapy with the trifunctional antibody removab^® over a therapy with puncture alone. The results of 128 patients with tumor diseases other than ovarian cancer (e.g. gastric cancer) are expected for the first quarter of 2007. Data on overall survival of all patients of the study are expected in the second quarter of 2007. The application dossier for marketing authorization for removab^® in malignant ascites is planned to be submitted to the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) in the second half of 2007.

In June 2006, Fresenius Biotech published the results of a phase Ila study in the treatment of ovarian cancer patients assessing tolerability, dose regimen and efficacy. Based on the encouraging results, the company plans to start a phase II study in this indication in Europe in the first half of 2007.

The phase II study with the antibody rexomun^® to treat breast cancer, which started in March 2006, and the phase II study with the antibody removab^® to treat gastric cancer, which started in June 2006, are ongoing.

Fresenius Biotech's operating income (EBIT) was € -45 million in 2006 (2005: € -41 million). For 2007, Fresenius Biotech expects an EBIT of approximately € -50 million.


The Business Segments

Fresenius Medical Care

Fresenius Medical Care is the world's leading provider of products and services for patients with chronic kidney failure. As of December 31, 2006, Fresenius Medical Care was serving 163,517 patients in 2,108 dialysis clinics.

^* before one-time expenses, expenses related to the stock option accounting change and the effect of the FTC-related clinic divestitures in the USA; excluding 2005 one-time expenses.

• Excellent sales and earnings growth in all regions
• Integration of Renal Care Group successfully completed
• Outlook 2007: double-digit sales and earnings growth expected

Fresenius Medical Care achieved strong sales growth of 26 % to US$ 8,499 million (2005: US$ 6,772 million). This was mainly driven by the excellent organic growth of 10 % and the consolidation of the Renal Care Group. Sales in dialysis care increased by 31 % to US$ 6,377 million (2005: US$ 4,867 million). In dialysis products Fresenius Medical Care achieved sales of US$ 2,122 million (2005: US$ 1,905 million), an increase of 11 %.

In North America Fresenius Medical Care's sales increased by 32 % to US$ 6,025 million (2005: US$ 4,577 million). Organic growth of 9 % in this region was excellent. Sales outside North America ("International") grew by 13 % (12 % in constant currency) to US$ 2,474 million (2005: US$ 2,195 million).

Net income increased by 18 % to US$ 537 million (2005: US$ 455 million). This result includes one-time expenses of US$ 47 million primarily for the early refinancing of debt, for the integration of Renal Care Group, and expenses related to the stock option accounting change as well as for the after-tax loss on the divestiture of dialysis clinics in the USA. Excluding the above effects and adjusted by one-time expenses in the previous year, net income increased by 24 % to US$ 584 million.

For the full year 2007, Fresenius Medical Care expects revenue to be about US$ 9.4 billion. The net income is expected to be between US$ 675 million and US$ 695 million in 2007.

For further information, please see Fresenius Medical Care's Investor News at www.fmc-ag.com. 


 

Fresenius Kabi

Fresenius Kabi offers infusion therapies and clinical nutrition for seriously and chronically ill patients in the hospital and out-patient environments. The company is also a leading provider of transfusion technology products.

• Strong organic sales growth of 8 %
• EBIT margin at new record levels in the fourth quarter and for the full year 2006
• Outlook 2007: strong margin growth and increase in earnings expected

In 2006, Fresenius Kabi's sales increased by 13 % to € 1,893 million (2005: € 1,681 million). The company achieved strong organic growth of 8 %. Acquisitions, primarily Clinico and Australian Pharmatel, contributed 4 % to sales. Currency translation effects contributed 1 % to growth.

Sales in Europe (excluding Germany) increased by 7 %, in Germany by 5 %.
Fresenius Kabi continued its exceptional growth outside Europe and achieved sales growth of 41 % in Asia-Pacific, 27 % in Latin America and 17 % in the other regions. Organic growth in the regions outside Europe was again well into the double digits.

Earnings at Fresenius Kabi reached new record levels: EBIT increased by 24 % to € 291 million (2005: € 234 million). The EBIT margin improved to 15.4 % in the full year 2006 (2005: 13.9 %). The original mid-term EBIT margin target of about 15.5 % by 2007 was therefore reached ahead of time. In the fourth quarter, the EBIT margin reached a new record level of 16.0 %. Net profit rose by 29 % to € 143 million (2005: € 111 million). This already includes one-time expenses of € 11 million for the early refinancing of the 2003 Euro Bond.

In 2007, Fresenius Kabi expects a positive sales and earnings performance. Organic sales growth is projected to be 6 to 8 %. Strong sales growth is anticipated again from the regions outside Europe. Based on the positive sales projection and further manufacturing and logistics improvements Fresenius Kabi expects an EBIT margin of 16.0 to 16.5 % in 2007.

Also for the mid-term, Fresenius Kabi expects to continue its positive financial performance: The company targets organic sales growth of 6 to 8 %. Further, Fresenius Kabi foresees its EBIT margin in the 16 to 18 % range.


 

Fresenius ProServe

Fresenius ProServe is a leading German hospital operator with 55 facilities. Moreover, the company offers engineering and services for hospitals and other health care facilities.
 

• Very good revenue and earnings development in the hospital operations business
• Strong order intake in engineering and services business
• Outlook 2007: Continued sales and earnings improvements expected

Fresenius ProServe's sales grew by 7 % to € 2,155 million in 2006 (2005 including HELIOS Kliniken: € 2,009 million). Organic growth was 3 %. EBIT increased by 23 % to € 154 million (2005 including HELIOS Kliniken: € 125 million).

Sales in hospital operations (HELIOS Kliniken Group) increased by 8 % to € 1,673 million (2005 including HELIOS Kliniken : € 1,550 million). The sales growth is mainly attributable to the acquisition of HUMAINE Kliniken, which was consolidated as of July 1, 2006. However, HELIOS also achieved strong organic growth of 3 %. EBIT increased to € 133 million, the EBIT margin improved to 7.9 % (2005 including HELIOS Kliniken: € 107 million and 6.9 %).

HELIOS continued its growth strategy in the German hospital market. In January 2007, the company has agreed to acquire two hospitals in North-Rhine Westphalia with a total of 333 beds and sales of about € 32 million in 2006. The acquisition still requires approval by the antitrust authorities.

Sales in the engineering and services business (VAMED, Pharmaplan) increased by 5 % to € 482 million (2005: € 459 million). EBIT rose by 14 % to € 25 million (2005: € 22 million). Order intake and order backlog continued to develop very positively: Order intake increased by 19 % to € 407 million (2005: € 341 million). Order backlog also grew by 19 % to € 428 million as of December 31, 2006 (December 31, 2005: € 360 million).

In December 2006, Fresenius ProServe has signed a definitive agreement to sell its subsidiary Pharmaplan GmbH to NNE A/S (NNE). NNE is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Novo Nordisk A/S, Copenhagen. The approval by the antitrust authorities is expected in the first quarter of 2007. The sale of Pharmaplan is a further step by Fresenius ProServe to focus on its business with hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

Fresenius ProServe projects further improvements in sales and earnings. Future growth potential is mainly expected from hospital privatizations in Germany. For 2007, Fresenius ProServe forecasts organic sales growth of 2 to 3 %. EBIT is expected to increase to € 160 to 170 million.


 

Video Webcast
As part of the publication of our results for the fiscal year 2006, an analyst conference will be held at the Fresenius headquarters in Bad Homburg on February 22, 2007 at 1:30 p.m. CET (7.30 a.m. EST). All investors are cordially invited to follow the conference in a live broadcast over the Internet at www.fresenius-ag.com / Investor Relations / Presentations. Following the meeting, a recording of the conference will be available as video-on-demand.

• Sales € 2.77 billion, + 16 % at actual rates, + 22 % in constant currency
• EBIT € 380 million, + 31 % at actual rates, + 37 % in constant currency
• Net income € 93 million, + 43 % at actual rates, + 48 % in constant currency

• All business segments in line with forecast
• Continued strong sales and earnings growth
• Fresenius ProServe to focus on hospital business – agreement reached to sell Pharmatec to Robert Bosch GmbH

 

Outlook for 2007 confirmed
Based on the Group's strong financial results in the first quarter, Fresenius fully confirms its positive outlook for 2007 issued at the end of February. Group sales are expected to grow by 8 to 10 % in constant currency. Net income is expected to increase by 20 to 25 % in constant currency. Further margin improvements in all business segments are expected to contribute to this growth.

 

Sales – Very good organic growth
Group sales increased by 16 % to € 2,767 million in the first quarter of 2007 (Q1 2006: € 2,388 million). Organic growth was 7 %. Acquisitions contributed 17 %, in particular Renal Care Group which was consolidated for the first time as from the second quarter of 2006. Divestitures reduced sales by 2 %. Currency translation effects had a negative impact of 6 %. This was mainly attributable to the average dollar depreciation of 9 % against the euro in the first quarter of 2007 compared to previous year's period.

In North America sales grew significantly due to the Renal Care Group consolidation and an excellent organic growth rate of 9 %. In Europe sales increased by 8 % in constant currency, with organic growth of 4 %. Strong growth rates were achieved in the emerging markets with organic growth of 12 % in Asia-Pacific, 10 % in Latin America and 25 % in Africa.

 

Excellent earnings growth
EBITDA increased by 34 % in constant currency and by 27 % at actual rates to € 479 million (Q1 2006: € 377 million). Group operating income (EBIT) increased by 37 % in constant currency and by 31 % at actual rates to € 380 million (Q1 2006: € 291 million). This growth was driven by the successful operating results in all business segments. The Group's EBIT margin improved to 13.7 % (Q1 2006: 12.2 %).

Group net interest was € -95 million (Q1 2006: € -84 million, including one-time expenses of € 25 million for the early refinancing of Group debt). This increase was primarily driven by debt financing of the Renal Care Group acquisition as from Q2 2006.

The tax rate further improved to 36.1 % from 36.7 % in Q1 2006.

Minority interest was € 89 million (Q1 2006: € 66 million), of which 93 % was attributable to the minority interest in Fresenius Medical Care.

Group net income grew strongly by 48 % in constant currency and by 43 % at actual rates to € 93 million (Q1 2006: € 65 million, including one-time expenses of € 11 million).

Earnings per ordinary share were € 0.60 and earnings per preference share were € 0.60 (Q1 2006 adjusted for the share split in February 2007: ordinary share € 0.43 and preference share € 0.43). This is an increase of 40 %.

 

Investments at high level
Fresenius Group spent € 140 million for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (Q1 2006: € 100 million). Acquisition spending was € 155 million (Q1 2006: € 3,290 million).

 

Strong cash flow
Operating cash flow increased by 54 % to € 287 million (Q1 2006: € 186 million), mainly driven by the strong increase in earnings. Cash flow before acquisitions and dividends increased to € 155 million (Q1 2006: € 91 million). The free cash flow after acquisitions (€ 63 million) and dividends (€ 4 million) was € 88 million (Q1 2006:
€ -3,199 million).

 

Solid balance sheet structure
Total assets increased in constant currency and at actual rates by 1 % to € 15,159 million (December 31, 2006: € 15,024 million). Current assets increased by 1 % to € 4,165 million (December 31, 2006: € 4,106 million). Non-current assets were € 10,994 million (December 31, 2005: € 10,918 million).

Shareholders' equity including minority interest grew by 3 % to € 5,873 million (December 31, 2006: € 5,728 million). The equity ratio (including minority interest) was 38.7 % (December 31, 2006: 38.1 %).

The Group's debt was € 5,778 million (December 31, 2006: € 5,872 million). Given the excellent earnings growth and a strong cash flow the net debt/EBITDA ratio improved to 2.8 as of March 31, 2007 (December 31, 2006: 3.0).

 

Employees
As of March 31, 2007, the Group had 107,348 employees (December 31, 2006: 104,872), an increase of 2 %.

 

Fresenius Biotech
Fresenius Biotech develops innovative therapies with trifunctional antibodies for the treatment of cancer as well as cell therapies for the treatment of the immune system. In the field of polyclonal antibodies, Fresenius Biotech has successfully marketed ATG-Fresenius S for many years. ATG-Fresenius S is an immunosuppressive agent used to prevent and treat graft rejection following organ transplantation.

In March 2007, encouraging results in the non-ovarian cancer patient stratum of a phase II/III pivotal study on malignant ascites were published, including treatment data of 129 patients. The results showed a clear advantage of the therapy with the trifunctional antibody removab^® over a therapy with puncture alone. Data on overall survival of all 258 patients for both strata of the study are expected in the second quarter of 2007.

The Phase II studies with the antibody rexomun^® to treat breast cancer and with the antibody removab^® to treat gastric cancer are ongoing. These studies started in March 2006 and June 2006 respectively. A phase II study with removab^® is due to start in Europe in the first half of 2007 for the treatment of patients with ovarian cancer.

Fresenius Biotech's operating income (EBIT) was € -11 million in Q1 2007. For 2007, Fresenius Biotech expects an EBIT of approximately € -50 million (2006: € -45 million).


 

The Business Segments

Fresenius Medical Care

Fresenius Medical Care is the world's leading provider of services and products for patients with chronic kidney failure. As of March 31, 2007, Fresenius Medical Care was serving 169,216 patients in 2,194 dialysis clinics.

• Excellent sales increase and high organic growth in all regions
• Continued strong earnings growth
• Outlook for 2007 fully confirmed

Fresenius Medical Care achieved strong sales growth of 33 % to US$ 2,321 million (Q1 2006: US$ 1,747 million), mainly driven by the excellent organic growth of 9 % and by the consolidation of Renal Care Group. Sales in dialysis care increased by 38 % to US$ 1,760 million (Q1 2006: US$ 1,273 million). In dialysis products Fresenius Medical Care achieved sales of US$ 560 million (Q1 2006: US$ 474 million), an increase of 18 %.

In North America Fresenius Medical Care's sales increased by 37 % to US$ 1,637 million (Q1 2006: US$ 1,194 million). Sales outside North America ("International") grew by 24 % (17 % in constant currency) to US$ 684 million (Q1 2006: US$ 553 million). This was primarily driven by the positive operating performance in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

Fresenius Medical Care increased EBIT by 50 % to US$ 365 million (Q1 2006: US$ 244 million), the EBIT margin was 15.7 % (Q1 2006: 14.0 %). Net income increased by 38 % to US$ 160 million (Q1 2006: US$ 116 million, including one-time expenses of US$ 9 million).

For the full year 2007, Fresenius Medical Care confirms its outlook and expects sales of about US$ 9.4 billion. The net income is expected to be between US$ 675 million and US$ 695 million.

For further information, please see Fresenius Medical Care's Investor News at www.fmc-ag.com.

 

Fresenius Kabi

Fresenius Kabi offers infusion therapies and clinical nutrition for seriously and chronically ill patients in the hospital and out-patient environments. The company is also a leading provider of transfusion technology products.

• Very good organic sales growth
• Continued strong earnings development
• Outlook for 2007 fully confirmed

In the first quarter of 2007, Fresenius Kabi's sales increased by 4 % to € 483 million (Q1 2006: € 466 million). Currency translation effects had an impact of -3 %. This was mainly due to the depreciation of the currencies in China, Brazil, Mexico and Canada against the euro. Organic growth was 6 %, acquisitions contributed 1 % to growth.

Organic sales in Europe (excluding Germany) increased by 5 %. In Germany organic sales decreased by 1 %. Outside Europe, Fresenius Kabi achieved organic sales growth of 22 % in the Asia-Pacific region. In Latin America organic sales growth was 7 % and in other regions 8 %.

Fresenius Kabi achieved a very good EBIT growth, with an increase of 13 % to € 77 million (Q1 2006: € 68 million). The EBIT margin was 15.9 % (Q1 2006: 14.6 %). Net income rose by 62 % to € 42 million (Q1 2006: € 26 million, including one-time expenses for early debt refinancing of € 8 million).

Fresenius Kabi confirms its outlook for the full year 2007. The company expects a further successful sales and earnings performance. Organic sales growth is projected to be 6 to 8 %. Continued strong sales growth is anticipated from the regions outside Europe. Based on the positive sales projection and further manufacturing and logistics improvements Fresenius Kabi expects an EBIT margin of 16.0 to 16.5 % in 2007.

 

Fresenius ProServe

Fresenius ProServe is a leading German hospital operator with 55 facilities. Moreover, the company offers engineering and services for hospitals and other health care facilities.

• Strong operating results achieved
• Divestiture of Pharmaplan finalized, agreement signed to sell Pharmatec to Robert Bosch GmbH
• Outlook for 2007 fully confirmed

Fresenius ProServe's sales grew by 9 % to € 521 million in Q1 2007 (Q1 2006: € 476 million). Organic growth was 3 %. EBIT increased by 20 % to € 36 million (Q1 2006: € 30 million).

Sales in hospital operations (HELIOS Kliniken Group) increased by 15 % to € 439 million (Q1 2006: € 383 million). The sales growth is mainly attributable to the acquisition of HUMAINE Kliniken, which was consolidated as of July 1, 2006. HELIOS also achieved strong organic growth of 3 %. EBIT increased by 19 % to € 32 million, the EBIT margin was 7.3 % (Q1 2006: € 27 million and 7.0 %).

In 2007, HELIOS continued its growth strategy in the German hospital market. The company acquired two hospitals in North Rhine-Westphalia with approximately 330 beds and revenues of € 32 million in 2006. A further hospital was acquired on Lake Constance with 170 beds and revenues of € 22 million in 2005 and was consolidated as from January 1, 2007. In addition, the option to acquire the outstanding equity stake (40 %) in HUMAINE Kliniken GmbH was exercised.

Sales in the engineering and services business was € 82 million (Q1 2006: € 93 million). The decrease was due to the sale of Pharmaplan, which was deconsolidated as of January 1, 2007. Organic growth was 2 %. EBIT of € 5 million was at previous year's level. Order intake continued to develop very positively and increased by 18 % to € 78 million (Q1 2006: € 66 million). Order backlog was € 431 million (December 31, 2006: € 428 million).

On May 1, 2007, Fresenius ProServe agreed to sell its subsidiary Pharmatec to Robert Bosch GmbH. With the divestiture of Pharmaplan and Pharmatec, Fresenius ProServe completes its strategy to focus on its business with hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Pharmatec manufactures high quality pure steam, pure water and sterilization equipment for the pharmaceutical industry. In 2006, the company had sales of about € 30 million. The transaction requires antitrust approval. Fresenius ProServe anticipates the closing of the transaction mid-year 2007.

Fresenius ProServe confirms its outlook for the full year 2007 and expects organic sales growth of 2 to 3 %. EBIT is expected to increase to € 160 to 170 million.

 

Conference Call
As part of the publication of the first quarter 2007 results, a conference call will be held on May 2, 2007 at 2.00 p.m. CEDT (8.00 a.m. EDT). We invite all investors to follow the conference call over the Internet at www.fresenius-ag.com/Investor Relations/Presentations. Following the conference, a recording of the call will be available.

 

Quarterly financial report
The quarterly financial report for the first quarter 2007 will be available on May 14, 2007 on the Internet at www.fresenius-ag.com/Investor Relations/Financial Reports.

• Sales € 5.59 billion, + 10 % at actual rates, + 15 % in constant currency
• EBIT € 780 million, + 15 % at actual rates, + 20 % in constant currency
• Net income € 195 million, + 39 % at actual rates, + 44 % in constant currency

• Excellent sales and earnings growth and further margin improvements in all business segments

 

Earnings outlook for 2007 raised
Based on the Group's strong financial results in the first half, Fresenius raises its earnings outlook for 2007. Net income is now expected to increase by ~25 % in constant currency. Previously, the Company expected net income to increase by 20 to 25 %. Group sales are expected to grow by 8 to 10 % in constant currency.

 

Sales – excellent organic growth
Group sales increased by 10 % to € 5,592 million (H1 2006: € 5,078 million). Organic sales growth was 7 %. Acquisitions contributed 10 %, in particular Renal Care Group, which was consolidated as from the second quarter of 2006. Divestitures reduced sales by 2 %. Currency translation effects had a negative impact of 5 %. This was mainly attributable to the average dollar rate depreciating 8 % against the euro in the first half of 2007 compared to previous year's period.

In North America sales grew significantly due to the Renal Care Group consolidation and an excellent organic growth rate of 8 %. In Europe sales increased by 8 % in constant currency, with organic growth of 4 %. Strong growth rates were achieved in the emerging markets with organic growth of 9 % in Asia-Pacific, 13 % in Latin America and 24 % in Africa.

 

Strong earnings growth
EBITDA increased by 18 % in constant currency and by 13 % at actual rates to € 977 million (H1 2006: € 867 million). Group operating income (EBIT) increased by 20 % in constant currency and by 15 % at actual rates to € 780 million (H1 2006: € 681 million; adjusted € 652 million including a gain from the divestiture of US dialysis clinics and one-time expenses related to the Renal Care Group acquisition). The strong earnings growth was driven by the successful operating results in all business segments. The Group's EBIT margin improved to 13.9 % (H1 2006: 13.4 %, adjusted margin: 12.8 %).

Group net interest was € -185 million (H1 2006: € -194 million, including one-time expenses of € 30 million for the early refinancing of Group debt).

The tax rate improved to 36.0 % (H1 2006: 42.3%; 37.4 % adjusted for the tax expense related to the divestiture of US dialysis clinics).

Minority interest increased to € 186 million (H1 2006: € 141 million), of which 93 % was attributable to the minority interest in Fresenius Medical Care.

Group net income also grew strongly by 44 % in constant currency and by 39 % at actual rates to € 195 million (H1 2006: € 140 million, including one-time expenses of € 16 million).

Earnings per ordinary share were € 1.26 and earnings per preference share were € 1.27 (H1 2006, adjusted for the February 2007 share split: ordinary share € 0.91, preference share € 0.92). This represents an increase of 38 % for both share classes.

 

High level of investment
Fresenius Group spent € 304 million for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (H1 2006: € 225 million). Acquisition spending was € 221 million (H1 2006: € 3,408 million).

 

Strong cash flow
Operating cash flow increased by 48 % to € 553 million (H1 2006: € 373 million), mainly driven by the strong earnings increase. Cash flow before acquisitions and dividends increased by 60 % to € 256 million (H1 2006: € 160 million). Free cash flow after acquisitions (€ 162 million) and dividends (€ 188 million) was € -94 million (H1 2006: € -2,997 million).

 

Solid balance sheet structure
Total assets increased by 3 % in constant currency and by 2 % at actual rates to € 15,343 million (December 31, 2006: € 15,024 million). Current assets increased by 4 % to € 4,275 million (December 31, 2006: € 4,106 million). Non-current assets were € 11,068 million (December 31, 2006: € 10,918 million).

Shareholders' equity including minority interest grew by 3 % to € 5,895 million (December 31, 2006: € 5,728 million). The equity ratio (including minority interest) was 38.4 % (December 31, 2006: 38.1 %).

The Group's debt was € 5,909 million (December 31, 2006: € 5,872 million). The net debt/EBITDA ratio stood at 2.9 on June 30, 2007 (December 31, 2006: 3.0).

 

Employees
As of June 30, 2007, the Group had 108,860 employees (December 31, 2006: 104,872), an increase of 4 %.

 

Fresenius Biotech
Fresenius Biotech develops innovative therapies with trifunctional antibodies for the treatment of cancer as well as cell therapies for the treatment of the immune system. In the field of polyclonal antibodies, Fresenius Biotech has successfully marketed ATG-Fresenius S for many years. ATG-Fresenius S is an immunosuppressive agent used to prevent and treat graft rejection following organ transplantation.

In July 2007, Fresenius Biotech announced further secondary endpoint data from a phase II/III study with removab^® (catumaxomab) in patients with malignant ascites. The data confirmed clear benefits for patients treated with the antibody. The trial data showed that removab significantly increases time to tumor progression and has a positive influence on overall survival time. Moreover, a prolonged time interval between therapeutic punctures for the treatment of malignant ascites was seen in the removab group compared to the control group. This effect was also observed beyond the end of the study. In December 2006 and March 2007, Fresenius Biotech already announced encouraging results on the primary study endpoint – puncture free survival.

The submission for marketing authorization with the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) for removab in malignant ascites is expected in late 2007.

The Phase II studies with the antibody rexomun^® to treat breast cancer and with the antibody removab to treat gastric cancer are ongoing. These studies started in March 2006 and June 2006, respectively. A phase II study with removab for the treatment of patients with ovarian cancer was started in Europe.

In the first half of 2007, Fresenius Biotech's operating income (EBIT) was € -20 million. For 2007, Fresenius Biotech expects an EBIT of approximately € -50 million (2006: € -45 million).


The Business Segments

Fresenius Medical Care

Fresenius Medical Care is the world's leading provider of services and products for patients with chronic kidney failure. As of June 30, 2007, Fresenius Medical Care was serving 171,687 patients in 2,209 dialysis clinics.

• Continued strong organic sales development
• Excellent earnings growth
• 2007 outlook raised

Fresenius Medical Care achieved significant sales growth of 21 % to US$ 4,725 million (H1 2006: US$ 3,912 million). This was mainly driven by the strong organic growth of 8 % and by the consolidation of Renal Care Group (RCG) as from the second quarter of 2006. Sales in dialysis care increased by 22 % to US$ 3,556 million (H1 2006: US$ 2,924 million). In dialysis products, Fresenius Medical Care achieved sales of US$ 1,169 million (H1 2006: US$ 988 million), an increase of 18 %.

In North America Fresenius Medical Care's sales increased by 20 % to US$ 3,297 million (H1 2006: US$ 2,754). Sales outside North America ("International") grew by 23 % (in constant currency: 16 %) to US$ 1,428 million (H1 2006: US$ 1,158 million). This was driven by the positive operating performance in Europe, the Asia-Pacific region and in Latin America.

Fresenius Medical Care increased EBIT by 23 % to US$ 756 million (H1 2006: US$ 616 million, adjusted US$ 581 million including a gain from the divestiture of US dialysis clinics and one-time expenses related to the RCG acquisition). The EBIT margin was 16.0 % (H1 2006: 15.7 %, adjusted 14.8 %). Net income increased by 38 % to US$ 339 million (H1 2006: US$ 246 million, including one-time expenses of US$ 16 million).

Based on the strong operational performance in the first half of 2007, Fresenius Medical Care raises its outlook for the full year 2007 and now expects to achieve revenue of more than US$ 9.5 billion. This represents an increase of at least 12 %. Previously, Fresenius Medical Care expected revenue of approximately US$ 9.4 billion. Net income is now projected to be in the range of US$ 685 million to US$ 705 million in 2007. This represents an increase of between 19 % and 23 % on an adjusted basis as compared to 2006 after one-time effects. On a reported basis, this translates into an increase in net income of between 28 % and 31 %. Previously, Fresenius Medical Care expected net income in the range of US$ 675 million to US$ 695 million.

For further information, please see Fresenius Medical Care's Investor News at www.fmc-ag.com. 

 

Fresenius Kabi

Fresenius Kabi offers infusion therapies and clinical nutrition for seriously and chronically ill patients in the hospital and out-patient environments. The company is also a leading provider of transfusion technology products.

• Excellent organic sales growth
• Continued strong EBIT margin increase in second quarter and first half of 2007
• 2007 outlook fully confirmed

In the first half of 2007, Fresenius Kabi increased sales by 5 % to € 986 million (H1 2006: € 937 million). Currency translation effects had an impact of -2 %. This was mainly due to the depreciation of currencies in South Africa, China and Canada. Organic growth was 7 %. In the second quarter of 2007, Fresenius Kabi achieved strong organic growth of 8 %.

In Europe (excluding Germany) organic sales growth was 5 % while sales in Germany were at previous year's level. In the second quarter of 2007, organic sales growth was 1 % in Germany. Outside Europe, Fresenius Kabi achieved organic sales growth of 22 % in the Asia-Pacific region in the first half of 2007. Organic sales growth in Latin America was 10 % and in other regions 11 %.

Fresenius Kabi continued its excellent earnings growth. In the first half of 2007, EBIT increased by 14 % to € 159 million (H1 2006: € 139 million). The EBIT margin improved to 16.1 % (H1 2006: 14.8 %). In the second quarter of 2007, Fresenius Kabi achieved an EBIT margin of 16.3 %. Net income increased by 45 % to € 87 million (H1 2006: € 60 million, including one-time expenses for early debt refinancing of € 11 million).

Fresenius Kabi fully confirms its outlook for the full year 2007. Organic sales growth is projected to be 6 to 8 %. Continued strong sales growth is anticipated from the regions outside Europe. Based on the positive sales projection and further manufacturing and logistics improvements Fresenius Kabi expects an EBIT margin of 16.0 to 16.5 % in 2007.

 

Fresenius ProServe

Fresenius ProServe is a leading German hospital operator with 58 facilities. Moreover, the company offers engineering and services for hospitals and other health care facilities.

• Continued strong sales and earnings growth
• Sale of Pharmatec to Robert Bosch GmbH completed June 30, 2007
• 2007 earnings outlook raised

Fresenius ProServe's sales grew by 10 % to € 1,069 million (H1 2006: € 974 million). Organic sales growth was 2 %. EBIT increased by 21 % to € 75 million (H1 2006: € 62 million).

Sales in hospital operations (HELIOS Kliniken Group) grew by 16 % to € 890 million (H1 2006: € 767 million). The growth is mainly attributable to the acquisition of HUMAINE Kliniken, which was consolidated as from July 1, 2006. HELIOS achieved strong organic growth of 3 %. EBIT increased by 21 % to € 68 million, EBIT margin was 7.6 % (H1 2006: € 56 million and 7.3 %).

In the second quarter of 2007, HELIOS Kliniken inaugurated its newly constructed hospital Berlin-Buch. In parallel, HELIOS continued its growth strategy in the German hospital market. In July 2007, HELIOS agreed to acquire the Mariahilf hospital in Hamburg. The hospital has 255 beds and achieved revenues of € 26 million in 2006.

Sales in the engineering and services business was € 179 million (H1 2006: € 207 million). The decrease was mainly due to the sale of Pharmaplan, which was deconsolidated as of January 1, 2007. Organic growth was -2 %. EBIT was € 9 million (H1 2006: € 9 million).

Furthermore, Fresenius ProServe agreed to sell its subsidiary Pharmatec to Robert Bosch GmbH on May 1, 2007. In 2006, the company had sales of about € 30 million. The transaction was completed June 30, 2007.

Order intake in the engineering and services business was € 106 million (H1 2006: € 185 million). The decrease was due to the postponement of orders to the second half of 2007 and to a very strong order intake in the second quarter of 2006. Order backlog was € 379 million (December 31, 2006: € 428 million).

Based on the excellent financial results in the first half, Fresenius ProServe raises its 2007 EBIT outlook from previously € 160 to 170 million to now € ~170 million. The outlook for organic sales growth is confirmed at 2 to 3 %.

 

Conference Call
As part of the publication of the results from the first half of 2007, a conference call will be held on August 2, 2007 at 2.00 p.m. CEDT (8.00 a.m. EDT). We invite all investors to follow the conference call over the Internet at www.fresenius.com, see Investor Relations/Presentations. Following the conference, a recording of the call will be available.

 

Quarterly financial report
The report for the second quarter and the first half of 2007 will be available from August 14, 2007 at www.fresenius.com, see Investor Relations/Financial reports.

• Sales € 8.4 billion, + 7 % at actual rates, + 11 % in constant currency
• EBIT € 1.2 billion, + 12 % at actual rates, + 17 % in constant currency
• Net income € 298 million, + 28 % at actual rates, + 32 % in constant currency

 

Outlook raised
Based on the Group's excellent financial results in the third quarter, Fresenius now expects net income to increase by more than 25 % in constant currency. Group sales are expected to grow by 9 to 10 % in constant currency. Previously, the Company expected net income to increase by ~25 % in constant currency and sales to grow by 8 to 10 % in constant currency.

 

Substantial growth: Group sales up 11 % in constant currency
In the first three quarters Group sales increased by 11 % in constant currency and by 7 % at actual rates to € 8,390 million (Q1-3 2006: € 7,843 million). Organic sales growth was 6 %. Acquisitions contributed a further 6 %. Divestitures reduced sales growth by 1 %. Currency translation had a negative impact of 4 %.

In North America sales grew by 14 % in constant currency due to the Renal Care Group consolidation and an organic growth rate of 6 %. In Europe sales grew by 7 % in constant currency with organic sales growth contributing 4 %. Strong growth rates were achieved in the emerging markets with organic growth of 9 % in Asia-Pacific, 11 % in Latin America and 18 % in Africa.

 

Excellent earnings growth: net income up 32 % in constant currency
Group EBITDA increased by 15 % in constant currency and by 10 % at actual rates to € 1,485 million (Q1-3 2006: € 1,350 million). Group operating income (EBIT) grew by 17 % in constant currency and by 12 % at actual rates to € 1,184 million (Q1-3 2006: € 1,060 million; adjusted for the gain from the divestiture of US dialysis clinics and one-time expenses related to the Renal Care Group acquisition: € 1,036 million). The Group's EBIT margin improved to 14.1 % (Q1-3 2006: 13.5 %).

Group net interest was € -279 million (Q1-3 2006: € -295 million, including one-time expenses of € 30 million for the early refinancing of Group debt).

The tax rate was 36.0 % (Q1-3 2006: 40.9 %; adjusted for the tax expense related to the divestiture of US dialysis clinics: 37.8 %).

Minority interest increased to € 281 million (Q1-3 2006: € 219 million), of which 93 % was attributable to the minority interest in Fresenius Medical Care.

Group net income grew strongly by 32 % in constant currency and by 28 % at actual rates to € 298 million (Q1-3 2006: € 233 million, including one-time expenses of € 16 million).

Earnings per ordinary share were € 1.92 and earnings per preference share were € 1.93 (Q1-3 2006 adjusted for the February 2007 share split: ordinary share € 1.52, preference share € 1.53). This represents an increase of 26 % for both share classes.

 

Investments at a high level of € 727 million
Fresenius Group spent € 485 million for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (Q1-3 2006: € 374 million). Acquisitions were € 242 million (Q1-3 2006: € 3,537 million).

 

Strong cash flow
Operating cash flow increased by 55 % to € 912 million (Q1-3 2006: € 588 million), driven by the strong earnings increase. In 2006, tax payments associated with the divestiture of US dialysis clinics had a negative effect. The cash flow margin was 10.9 % (Q1-3 2006: 7.5 %). Cash flow before acquisitions and dividends nearly doubled to € 447 million (Q1-3 2006: € 228 million). Free cash flow after acquisitions (€ 182 million) and dividends (€ 191 million) was € 74 million (Q1-3 2006: € -2,986 million).

 

Balance sheet structure: Net debt/EBITDA ratio improved
Fresenius Group's total assets increased by 4 % in constant currency and just slightly at actual rates to € 15,054 million (December 31, 2006: € 15,024 million). Current assets increased by 4 % to € 4,266 million (December 31, 2006: € 4,106 million). Non-current assets were € 10,788 million (December 31, 2006: € 10,918 million).

Shareholders' equity including minority interest grew by 4 % to € 5,946 million (December 31, 2006: € 5,728 million). The equity ratio (including minority interest) was 39.5 % (December 31, 2006: 38.1 %).

Group debt decreased by 5 % at actual rates and 1 % in constant currency to € 5,596 million (December 31, 2006: € 5,872 million). The net debt/EBITDA ratio improved to 2.7 as of September 30, 2007, well below the level of 3.0 as of December 31, 2006.

 

Number of employees increased
As of September 30, 2007, Fresenius increased the number of its employees by 5 % to 110,379 (December 31, 2006: 104,872).

 

Fresenius Biotech
Fresenius Biotech develops innovative therapies with trifunctional antibodies for the treatment of cancer as well as cell therapies for the treatment of the immune system. In the field of polyclonal antibodies, Fresenius Biotech has successfully marketed ATG-Fresenius S for many years. ATG-Fresenius S is an immunosuppressive agent used to prevent and treat graft rejection following organ transplantation.

After successful completion of the phase II/III study with removab^® in patients with malignant ascites, submission for marketing authorization with the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) is expected for late 2007.

For the future marketing of removab in the USA and Japan, Fresenius Biotech is in discussions with potential partners.

Fresenius Biotech and Nabi Biopharmaceuticals agreed to terminate the agreement for the clinical development and marketing of ATG-Fresenius S in North America. Fresenius Biotech will assume responsibility for the clinical development and registration of ATG-Fresenius S in the US and continue with the ongoing phase III study.

In the first three quarters of 2007, Fresenius Biotech's operating income (EBIT) was € -33 million. For the full year 2007, Fresenius Biotech continues to expect EBIT of approximately € -50 million (2006: € -45 million).


The Business Segments

Fresenius Medical Care
Fresenius Medical Care is the world's leading provider of services and products for patients with chronic kidney failure. As of September 30, 2007, Fresenius Medical Care was serving 172,227 patients in 2,221 dialysis clinics.

• Strong organic sales growth of 7 %
• EBIT margin improved
• Earnings outlook now confirmed at upper end

Fresenius Medical Care achieved strong sales growth of 16 % to US$ 7,151 million (Q1-3 2006: US$ 6,147 million). This was mainly driven by the strong organic growth of 7 % and by the consolidation of Renal Care Group (RCG). Sales in dialysis care increased by 16 % to US$ 5,357 million (Q1-3 2006: US$ 4,628 million). In dialysis products, sales grew by 18 % to US$ 1,794 million (Q1-3 2006: US$ 1,519 million).

In North America, sales growth was 14 % to US$ 4,957 million (Q1-3 2006: US$ 4,367 million). Sales outside North America ("International" segment) grew by 23 % (in constant currency: 15 %) to US$ 2,194 million (Q1-3 2006: US$ 1,780 million). This was driven by positive operating performance in Europe, the Asia-Pacific region and in Latin America.

EBIT rose by 19 % to US$ 1,152 million (Q1-3 2006: US$ 964 million; adjusted for the gain from the divestiture of US dialysis clinics and one-time expenses related to the RCG acquisition: US$ 936 million). The EBIT margin was 16.1 % (Q1-3 2006: 15.7 %; adjusted 15.2 %). Net income increased by 35 % to US$ 520 million (Q1-3 2006: US$ 385 million, including one-time expenses of US$ 20 million).

Fresenius Medical Care confirms its outlook for the full year 2007 and expects to achieve revenue of more than US$ 9.5 billion. This represents an increase of at least 12 %. Net income was projected to be in the range of US$ 685 million to US$ 705 million in 2007. Based on the strong performance in the third quarter, Fresenius Medical Care now expects the net income to be at the upper end of this guidance.

For further information, please see Fresenius Medical Care's Investor News at www.fmc-ag.com.

 

Fresenius Kabi
Fresenius Kabi offers infusion therapies and clinical nutrition for seriously and chronically ill patients in the hospital and out-patient environments. The company is also a leading provider of transfusion technology products.

• Strong organic sales growth of 7 %
• EBIT margin improves by 100 basis points to 16.2 %
• 2007 outlook fully confirmed

Fresenius Kabi increased sales by 6 % to € 1,494 million (Q1-3 2006: € 1,404 million). Currency translation effects had a negative impact of 2 %. This was mainly due to the depreciation of currencies in South Africa, China and Canada. Organic growth was 7 %. In the third quarter of 2007, Fresenius Kabi achieved an excellent organic growth of 8 %.

In Europe (excluding Germany) organic sales growth was 5 %. In Germany organic sales growth was 1 %. In the Asia-Pacific region Fresenius Kabi achieved significant organic sales growth of 22 %. Organic sales growth in Latin America was 10 % and in other regions 10 %.

Fresenius Kabi continued its excellent earnings growth. EBIT grew by 14 % to € 242 million (Q1-3 2006: € 213 million). The EBIT margin improved to 16.2 % (Q1-3 2006: 15.2 %). Fresenius Kabi reported strong growth in net income of 31 % to € 132 million (Q1-3 2006: € 101 million, including one-time expenses for early debt refinancing of € 11 million).

Fresenius Kabi fully confirms its outlook for the full year 2007. Organic sales growth is projected to be well into the 6 to 8 % range. Continued very strong sales growth is anticipated in particular from the regions outside Europe. Based on the positive sales projection and further manufacturing and logistics improvements Fresenius Kabi expects an EBIT margin of 16.0 to 16.5 % in 2007.

 

Fresenius ProServe
Fresenius ProServe is a leading German hospital operator with 58 facilities. Moreover, the company offers engineering and services for hospitals and other health care facilities.

• HELIOS achieves further operating margin improvement
• VAMED wins contract worth more than € 100 million
• Sales guidance for 2007 fully confirmed, EBIT guidance increased

Fresenius ProServe achieved sales growth of 5 % to € 1,601 million (Q1-3 2006: € 1,526 million). Organic growth was 1 %, held back by delayed project revenues at VAMED. Acquisitions contributed 9 % whereas divestitures, primarily Pharmaplan and Pharmatec, had a negative impact of 5 %.

EBIT increased by 16 % to € 122 million (Q1-3 2006: € 105 million).

Sales in hospital operations (HELIOS Kliniken Group) increased by 12 % to € 1,348 million (Q1-3 2006: € 1,204 million). HELIOS achieved strong organic growth of 3 %. EBIT increased by 18 % to € 111 million (Q1-3 2006: € 94 million). The EBIT margin improved by 40 basis points to 8.2 %. In the third quarter of 2007, HELIOS reached an excellent EBIT margin of 9.4 % (Q3 2006: 8.7 %).

In July 2007, HELIOS agreed to acquire the Mariahilf hospital in Hamburg. The completion of the transaction is currently delayed by a legal proceeding against the seller of the hospital.

Sales in the engineering and services business were € 253 million (Q1-3 2006: € 322 million). The decrease is mainly due to the divestitures of Pharmaplan and Pharmatec, which were deconsolidated as of January 1, 2007, and June 30, 2007, respectively. Organic growth in the first three quarters was -7 % due to project delays at VAMED. EBIT was € 13 million (Q1-3 2006: € 14 million).

Order intake in the engineering business was € 245 million (Q1-3 2006: € 291 million). The decrease was due to the deconsolidation of the above-mentioned companies and the postponement of orders. In the third quarter of 2007, order intake increased by 31 % compared to the prior-year figure. This was mainly attributable to a contract worth more than € 100 million. The project includes the construction of a health and spa resort in Vienna/Austria. VAMED continues to expect an increase in its order intake in 2007 over 2006.

Due to its substantial order backlog of € 476 million (December 31, 2006: € 428 million) and its current view on the fourth quarter, VAMED remains confident to increase its sales in 2007 over 2006.

Based on the excellent financial results in 2007 to date, Fresenius ProServe raises its 2007 EBIT outlook from previously € ~170 million to more than € 170 million. The outlook for organic sales growth is confirmed at 2 to 3 %.

 

Analyst Meeting
As part of the publication of the results for the first three quarters of 2007, an analyst meeting will be held at the Fresenius headquarters in Bad Homburg on October 31, 2007 at 1:30 p.m. CET (8.30 a.m. EDT). All investors are cordially invited to follow the conference in a live broadcast over the Internet at www.fresenius.com / Investor Relations / Presentations. Following the meeting, a recording of the conference will be available as video-on-demand.

 

Quarterly financial report
The report for the third quarter and the first three quarters of 2007 will be available from November 14, 2007 at www.fresenius.com, see Investor Relations/Financial reports.