Micronic reports on first quarter 2008

Täby, Sweden, April 18, 2008 - Micronic Laser Systems AB (listed on the OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm, in the category Mid cap, Information Technology: MICR) today presented the Group’s interim report for January 1 - March 31, 2008. The information contained in this interim report is subject to the disclosure requirements of Micronic Laser Systems AB (publ.) pursuant to the Swedish Securities Market Act. The information was submitted for publication on April 18, 8:00 a.m.

* Order intake for the first quarter was SEK 50 million (58).

* Net sales for the first quarter reached SEK 79 million (40).

* The operating loss for the first quarter was SEK 42 million (108).

* The operating loss adjusted for capitalization and amortization of development costs
for the first quarter was SEK 58 million (86).

* The loss after tax for the first quarter was SEK 29 million (78), equal to earnings per
share of SEK -0.75 (-1.98).

* The order backlog at March 31, 2008, was SEK 314 million (224) and consisted solely of systems. At year-end 2007 the order backlog was SEK 332 million.

“Net sales for the first quarter reached SEK 79 million, reflecting our low order intake. The operating loss decreased significantly compared to the same period of last year, partly due to the fact that we now have net capitalization of development costs in contrast to last year’s net amortization. Gross margin also recovered compared to the first quarter of 2007, but ended up at a low 31 percent as a result of weak sales,” says Sven Löfquist, President and CEO of Micronic Laser Systems AB.

“Expectations for strengthening of the display market in 2008 remain positive,” continues Sven Löfquist. “Spending on display manufacturing equipment is rising further and this is expected to stimulate demand for photomasks. However, our customers are experiencing continued severe price pressure and uncertainty about when market growth for photomasks will pick up speed. An additional source of uncertainty for photomask makers is the timing of investments in manufacturing capacity for next-generation displays (G10), which place new demands on pattern generator size.

Uncertainty about development in the semiconductor market during 2008 has increased. However, several customers indicate an upswing in the second half of the year. The Sigma system currently on lease for a 12-month period will therefore stay on the customer site for some time longer until the market situation becomes clear.

All in all, development during the quarter was in line with our guidance in connection with the previous quarterly report and our picture of the market for pattern generators remains unchanged,” concludes Sven Löfquist.


Company contacts:
Sven Löfquist
President & CEO
+46 8 638 52 00
sven.lofquist@micronic.se

Carl-Johan Blomberg
CFO
+46 8 638 52 00
carl-johan.blomberg@micronic.se