Golay Group - Turnover 2000

The Lausanne based Golay Group, active in the sectors of jewellery, watches and luxury items, and a major player in the worldwide market of cultured pearls, announces a consolidated net turnover for the year 2000 of CHF 325 million, an increase of 7% (12% in local currency).
The economic situation, which was very dynamic during the first half of 2000 but rather disappointing during the second, favoured the increase in sales.
The Divisions reached the following turnover:

 Wholesale (cultured pearls, gold jewellery,
diamonds and precious stones) = CHF 145 million = 45%

 Retail (Switzerland, Germany, Spain,
Portugal and Thailand)= CHF 101 million = 31%

 Production / Signity (cutting, polishing and
distribution of jewellery stones)= CHF 79 million = 24%
The result of the Group to be published at the end of April 2001, whilst better than in 1999, will nevertheless be below expectations.
Prospects for 2001
While the business year 2000 had begun on a note of general confidence, 2001 was approached with greater caution, given the slower economic development in the USA. General growth for this year is expected to be down.
However, with an adapted organisational structure, the Golay Group is confident that it will be able to increase its market share.
Breakdown of turnover by geographical region
In CHF millions

20001999Europe16451%15551%Japan6620% 7625%South East Asia6319%5117%Other countries3210%217%

For further information, please contact
Mr. Rodolphe von Gunten, CEO
Tel. +41 (0)21 613 7777 / Fax +41 (0)21 613 7700 / [email protected]