The Saint-Gobain Group's consolidated financial statements for the first half of 1999 reflect the consolidation of Essilor & processing companies in the Flat Glass Division from Jan 1 1999, for the first time. Consolidated net income for the first half of 1999 is estimated at FF 5,786m, a 67.7% increase relative to the first half of 1998. This includes the capital gains resulting from the partial unwinding of cross-shareholdings with the Vivendi Group. These satisfactory performances, in line with the Group's 1999 objectives, stem from the development & improved profitability strategy implemented by the Group and its three operating sectors: Glass, High-performance Materials & Housing Products. The Glass Sector felt the benefits of both sustained demand in all its business lines & price increases in the Flat Glass & Insulating Divisions.
