Q1 2009 highlights
* Sales up 15% to ¤ 8.7 billion
* Operating income up 18% to ¤ 396 million
* Net income ¤ 196 million
* Stop & Shop/Giant-Landover operating income up 20% to $
242 million
Amsterdam, the Netherlands - Ahold today published its interim report
for the first quarter 2009.
CEO John Rishton said: "In our first quarter we continued to make
good progress with our strategy for profitable growth. We had strong
sales and solid margins in the Netherlands and the United States,
despite the challenging economic environment.
"Identical sales growth at Stop & Shop and Giant-Landover were the
strongest in many years, helping us grow market share and margin.
Giant-Carlisle gained significant market share in a highly
competitive and promotional market.
"In Europe, Albert Heijn continued to successfully balance sales,
market share and margin. In Central Europe, the weak economy and the
introduction of the euro in Slovakia impacted results. We are taking
aggressive restructuring actions in both the Czech Republic and
Slovakia to build a firm foundation for the future.
"Net income for the first quarter for the group was down 25%,
reflecting higher taxes and a ¤ 66 million net provision for lease
guarantees for BI-LO and Bruno's."
This announcement was originally distributed by Hugin. The issuer is
solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
