06.06.2008
Consolidated net profits increased by 2.5 million euros
The fiscal year 2007 was characterized by a marked increase in turnover. The consolidated turnover of Dress & Sommer Aktiengesellschaft was 120.4 million euros (109.7 million euros in the previous year). Consolidated net profits have increased by 2.5 million to 12 million euros compared with the previous year. The reasons for this lie in the rising economic growth at home, in focusing on the core competences project management, real estate consulting, engineering and the continued expansion of international activities, as well as an improved sales management. Additionally, the first successes from the efficiency program and a further improved international controlling reflect positively on the financial statement. In comparison to the previous year the results were significantly improved, particularly in the international locations, which now contribute 22% of the total result and make the group more independent from regional economic fluctuations with a broader international presence. Thus the strategy of the market oriented concentration and distinguishing of services developed by the partner firms of Drees & Sommer is taking effect. This focus is related to a specific market expansion which promises continued profitable growth for the future.
Networking and core competences
At each office the most diverse services of the core competences project management, real estate consulting and engineering are tailored to the customer and processed involving network experts. This includes engineering services for general planning and general technical planning, in which networking of the technical skills with management skills is very beneficial to the customer. Connected with the strategy of awarding a contract singly or in a package, Drees & Sommer can absorb a large part of today's looming increase in construction prices by effectively planning for production. Drees & Sommer fulfills the increasing demand for ecological and economical buildings which are cost-effective with new services such as the "Green Building Label." The experts advise the customers regarding the investments required for certification, and are authorized to award various Green Building certificates.
International expansion of the technical due diligence
After the sub-prime crisis, a decrease in the volume of transactions became noticeable in the area of technical due diligence concerning larger portfolios in Germany. However, the number of transactions did not decrease. Instead, there is an increase in the trading of smaller real estate properties ranging from 50 to 100 million euros. The market has developed markedly in this area throughout Europe. Drees & Sommer has responded by providing comprehensive technical due diligence services in all countries concerned. Drees & Sommer ensures long-term profitable purchase and sales decisions with a special "Green Building Due Diligence."
More than 100 new jobs
Drees & Sommer employed 100 additional staff in 2007. The company has implemented an all-out employment program as an investment for the future, especially for young employees and their training, which will be continued in 2008. Another 80 new staff have been employed by June 2008. The new additions are being introduced to the basics of their special fields at the Drees & Sommer training academy before they become acquainted with the practical aspects of projects alongside experienced employees as part of "training on the job." Special training programs are offered to junior executives.
Outlook for 2008: Targeting new countries and markets
The governments of the United Arabian Emirates (UAE) have currently issued regulations for sustainable buildings that will effect both new and existing buildings. The partnership has decided to significantly increase activities in the Middle East, as, next to project management, the company division known as Green Building is one of the primary competences of Drees & Sommer. To this end a regional holding directed by Ralf Schwiede is currently being founded, which is to focus business in the Middle East as well as an expansion to India. Apart from this it is becoming distinctly clear that more and more German customers expect of Drees & Sommer to be accompanied in international investments with the accustomed efficiency and care with which they are familiar in Germany. The rapidly increasing number of relevant contracts has caused the real estate service provider to currently create the structural prerequisites for accompaniment in a number of additional countries with emphasis on Europe.
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Nadja Lemke
Phone +49 711 1317-177
Fax +49 711 1317-108
nadja.lemke@dreso.com
