Belgium: Etex’s net profit was Euro176m in 2019, a rise of 26% year-on-year from Euro140m in 2019. Sales crept up by 1.5% to Euro2.94bn from Euro2.90bn. Etex chief executive officer (CEO) Paul Van Oyen called 2019 an ‘outstanding year’ in which Etex ‘significantly increased its plasterboard volumes, driven by a strong market in several countries’ and reduced its debt by 43% to Euro331m, its lowest level since 2011. This was thanks to the sale of its UK and Portuguese tile roofing businesses.
Van Oyen’s announcement was overshadowed by the current circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak. “Today, my thoughts mainly go to all of our colleagues and their families worldwide, especially the ones who have been infected with the coronavirus,” he said. “Etex will not change its identity as a result of this crisis: our priority is and will always be the health and safety of our colleagues and stakeholders worldwide. We are determined keeping our business running, and to continue to Inspire ways of living.” Van Oyen also paid his respects to those within the company who have died of coronavirus.
