Vetropack, the Swiss-based glass container maker with factories in Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic, Croatia & Slovakia, increased its turnover by 11.9% in 2003 to Swiss Francs 479.9M (CHF). Its pre-tax profits rose by 46.7% to CHF 56.5M. This reflects the contribution of Vetropack's company in Slovakia; rising demand for glass in Eastern & South-eastern Europe; & operating improvements brought about by investments in productivity advances. The company sold 3.3BN glass pieces in 2003, of which 35.1% were exported. All its factories worked to full capacity during the year & its workforce fell from 2,809 employees in 2002 to 2,744 in 2003. Vetropack strengthened its position in all its five home markets by aligning itself to regional requirements & expanding market capacity by reliable deliveries as well as quality products & services. (whole item)
