The Bossard Group, Switzerland, reported sales for the first half of CHF 343.6 million (US$349.5 million), an increase of 2.1 percent year-over-year. Profit grew 5.6 percent to CHF 31.3 million (US$31.8 million).

In Europe, half-year sales rose 4.4 percent to CHF 207.7 million (US$211.3 million), up 2.3 percent in local currency.

In America, sales declined 0.9 percent CHF 86.4 million (US$87.9 million), down 4.5 percent in local currency. This revenue decline is due primarily to weaker demand from a major customer in the agricultural technology sector. 

In Asia, sales declined 1.4 percent to CHF 49.5 million (US$50.4 million), up 1.6 percent in local currency.

In the second quarter, group sales increased 3.3 percent.