Sales And Profits Rise At Johnson Matthey

Advanced materials technology group Johnson Matthey reported that it has seen rises in sales and profits. Announcing results for the 6m to end September, CE Neil Carson said: "Johnson Matthey performed well in the first half of 2008/9. With global car sales expected to fall in the second half, we have taken action to reduce costs and protect our margins in emission control technologies. The outlook for our other catalyst business remains good underpinned by environmental legislation and concerns over energy security. Long-term drivers remain firmly in place. With our strong balance sheet and investment in new technology, the group is in a good position to weather the current economic downturn."