Ad-hoc | 6 May 2004 07:33

Fresenius Group – First Quarter 2004

Ad-hoc-announcement transmitted by DGAP. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. ——————————————————————————– Fresenius Group – First Quarter 2004 Excellent start into fiscal year 2004 Fresenius Group’s business development in the first quarter 2004 was very positive. Exchange rate fluctuations had a significant impact: Sales rose 8 % in constant currency. At actual exchange rates sales decreased 1 % to EUR 1,720 million (Q1 2003: EUR 1,729 million). Group EBIT increased 12 % in constant currency and 2 % at actual exchange rates to EUR 197 million (Q1 2003: EUR 194 million). In constant currency Group net income increased 17 %. At actual exchange rates Group net income was EUR 39 million, up 8 % from the first quarter 2003. Earnings per ordinary share were EUR 0.94, an increase of 8 % from EUR 0.87 in the first quarter 2003. Earnings per preference share were EUR 0.95 (Q1 2003: EUR 0.88), an increase of 8 %. The very strong first quarter results and the positive business development at Fresenius Medical Care and Fresenius Kabi reinforce our full-year outlook for the Group: Fresenius expects a mid single-digit percent increase in 2004 sales in constant currency. Net income is expected to grow in the range of 25 to 30 % in constant currency. We expect sales and earnings to increase in all business segments. The Management Board Bad Homburg v.d.H., May 6, 2004 end of ad-hoc-announcement (c)DGAP 06.05.2004 ——————————————————————————– WKN: 578560; ISIN: DE0005785604; Index: MDAX Listed: Amtlicher Markt in Düsseldorf, Frankfurt (Prime Standard) und München; Freiverkehr in Berlin-Bremen, Hamburg und Stuttgart 060733 Mai 04