HiQ 2005 – somewhat faster than the surroundings

In 2005 HiQ experienced one of the strongest years in its history. Net sales increased to SEK 720.5 (512.9) million during the year, an increase of 40 percent. Operating profit (EBIT) increased to SEK 148.3 (71.1) million, corresponding to an operating margin of 20.6 (13.9) percent. Pre-tax profit (PTP) increased to SEK 149.5 (73.3) million. The Board’s dividend proposal to the AGM is SEK 2.10 per share.

“In 2005 HiQ had its strongest year ever. We grew by 40 percent and our operating margin reached 20.6 percent during the year, a very strong performance,” says Lars Stugemo, President and CEO at HiQ. “HiQ has developed nicely in 2005, the effect of our customers entrusting us with the task of developing their products and services. And it is an effect of the knowledge and commitment that all HiQ employees demonstrate in their daily work. I am proud to represent a company with leading customers and talented employees,” Stugemo continues. Developments were good in all subsidiaries and geographic markets in 2005, with strong growth and good margins. During the year we constantly worked on broadening our presence in all industries where HiQ operates, which has meant that HiQ today is a key player in many sectors. HiQ is continuing to capture market share. “Today HiQ has a very cost-efficient organization, strong sales force and good delivery capacity. During the year we also recruited 187 new employees with retained high capacity utilization - I am extremely satisfied,” says Stugemo. HiQ's President and CEO Lars Stugemo will present the report at 10:00 am today, Tuesday 14 February, in the White Room, Nordic Light Hotel, Vasaplan 7 in Stockholm. The report may be ordered at +46 (0)8-588 90 000 or downloaded at www.hiq.se For further information, please contact: Lars Stugemo, President and CEO, tel. HiQ, tel: +46 (0)8-588 90 000 Annika Billberg, Head of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations Manager, tel, +46 (0)8-588 90 015, +46 (0)704-200,103, annika.billberg@hiq.se