Consolidated Financial Statements >
Directors’ Report
76
| 2012 annual report prysmian group
Segment performance TELECOM BUSINESS
How has optical cable demand evolved over 2012?
Demand has slowed in North and South America, reflecting
the suspension of government incentives, but we are
expecting to see a recovery with the reintroduction of stimulus
plans in Brazil. Demand in Europe and China has shown an
upward trend for all applications, while future prospects
remain positive in Australia thanks to the National Broadband
Network project.
What areas of the telecom business received positive market
feedback in 2012?
The Multimedia Solutions segment confirmed its competitive
position with a growth in profits; this result is definitely
linked to our proven commitment to optimising costs
and to constantly searching out new markets thanks to a
comprehensive, well-diversified product range that allows us
to achieve important breakthroughs. Even sales in the OPGW
segment enjoyed an upward trend, particularly in Spain, the
Middle East and Africa.
What trends do you see for 2013?
We expect demand for optical fibre cables to recover by the
second half of the year. In the meantime, our focus continues
to be on integrating and rationalising the business, with the
goal of achieving efficient cost synergies and consolidation of
our position in the segments served.
Phil Edwards
Executive Vice President
Telecom Business
