On the basis of the positive business performance of the Group to date, we are giving a more precise forecast for the whole year 2007. At Group level, we expect to achieve sales of more than € 12 billion and operating profit of € 2.3 - € 2.4 billion. These figures correspond to a double-digit growth rate in sales and earnings.

In addition, we anticipate that the net financial debt at the year-end will be below € 7.2 billion. Therefore we are at the lower end of our initial estimate of € 7.2 to 7.5 billion.

In the medium term, it remains our objective to achieve an operating profit of more than € 3 billion in the 2010 financial year. The expected cost synergies of € 250 million per annum, which are planned to take full effect by 2009, will contribute towards this target.