Investment volume slightly above medium-term goals
Investments in property, plant and equipment and intangible assets amounted to CHF 104.8 million in 2014 or CHF 6.8 million (+6.9%) more than in the previous year. Investment volume was therefore slightly above CHF 100 million, the level aimed for over the medium term in order to be prepared for expected growth. As a percentage of sales, the investment ratio was 4.4% (previous year 4.3%). All scheduled larger investment projects were carried out as planned.
In 2014, 35% of all investments or CHF 37.2 million was used for infrastructure expansion. Geberit used 23% or CHF 23.7 million to acquire tools and equipment for new product developments, 31% or CHF 32.6 million was invested in the modernization of property, plant and equipment, while 11% or CHF 11.3 million was used for rationalization measures relating to property, plant and equipment.
The bulk of investments went toward machinery, the procurement of tools and molds for new products as well as building conversions and new building projects. Among other things, the new plant in Slovenia and the expansion of the Italian plant were completed in the reporting year. Additionally, investments were also made in important development projects and the further optimization of production processes.