Vidrala Sees Profits Up 18%

Vidrala SA, the largest stock market-listed manufacturer of container glass in Spain, sees its results improving by more than 18% in 2004, boosted by sales in southern Europe. According to estimates, profits will reach EUR 21 million compared to EUR 17.8 million for 2003. It is hoped that sales will grow to EUR 190 million. The new plants in Barcelona and Milan will increase sales by EUR 100 million when they become operational in 2005. By the end of 2005, Vidrala SA chairman Carlos Declaux sees beer and cava bottles accounting for 20% of company sales.