According to the preliminary figures, the group’s order intake was up by 5.1%, reaching €605m (2012: €575.8m).

Against a backdrop of a slightly contracting market, the Homag Group was able to increase sales revenue by 2.9% to €788.8m (2012 : €767m).

"Particularly pleasing was the positive development of our results of operations," said Dr Markus Flik, ceo. "Our measures to increase efficiency are taking effect. We remain on course for profitable growth,"