The Bossard Group, Switzerland, reported first quarter sales of CHF 170.4 million (US$178.6 million), an increase of 0.9 percent year-over-year. As reported in local currencies, sales fell 0.4 percent.

In Europe, the company recorded growth in key markets such as Germany, France and Denmark, which helped compensate for a drop in demand in Switzerland. Sales increased to CHF 103.6 million (US$108.6 million), up 1.4 percent year-over-year in local currency.

In America, sales were CHF 43.8 million (US$45.9 million), down 4.8 percent compared to last year in local currency. In Asia, sales were CHF 23 million (US$24.1 million), down 0.4 percent in local currency.