APC 2003 Annual Report Download - page 4

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2
In 2003, your Company returned to growth
and confirmed its ability to achieve strong operating
results. After reaching a low in the first quarter,
sales gradually turned upwards, rising faster at
the end of the year.
The gross margin widened by one point and
the operating margin, excluding the currency effect,
stood at 13%. To top things off, we ended the year
with record free cash flow of nearly € 1 billion.
Schneider Electric is in a position to pursue its
growth strategy while increasing total shareholder
return.
Our world leadership positions in our core
businesses, our solid balance sheet and our strong
operating performance make us the benchmark in
our industry and show that we are on the right
strategic path.
Chairman’s Message
Henri Lachmann
Chairman
and Chief Executive Officer
In 2003, Schneider Electric returned
to growth and maintained a high operating margin