Pilkington has issued a trading update statement ahead of the announcement of its results for the financial year, to be made at the end of May. The statement shows that the building products sector has continued to be weak with the exception of the UK, where legislative changes requiring the use of energy-saving glass has helped sales. Profits form automotive glass sales in Europe are forecast to be slightly down on the previous year, as vehicle production dipped but new models were introduced. The aerospace division is expected to show better results than last year. The company also expects the rescheduled start up of its new Brazilian float line, a joint venture with Saint-Gobain, to commence next year. Pilkington also states that its emphasis for the coming year is "firmly on free cash flow generation from existing business."
