STRATEC SE Announces Financial Results for the 2023 Fiscal Year

STRATEC SE, a leading provider of fully automated analyzer systems and complex consumables for the life sciences and clinical diagnostics fields, has announced its financial outcomes for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023. The company reported a slight downturn in consolidated sales by 3.8% at constant currency, totaling €261.9 million, compared to €274.6 million in the previous year. Yet, it experienced a notable constant-currency growth of 12.9% in the fourth quarter of 2023.

The company's adjusted EBIT margin stood at 10.3%, aligning with the anticipated guidance corridor but marking a decrease from 16.4% in 2022. Some positivity was noted with the launch of new products and the initiation of new development cooperations. For 2024, STRATEC anticipates stable or slight growth in sales on a constant-currency basis, with an adjusted EBIT margin projected between 10.0% and 12.0%. The company highlighted a challenging start to the year but expects a significant recovery in sales and earnings from the second quarter onwards.

Regarding its business performance, STRATEC identified challenges such as the overcapacity created during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a subdued demand for molecular diagnostics instrumentation solutions. However, growth in Service Parts and Consumables and Development and Services sectors partly offset the impact.

Furthermore, STRATEC continued to progress in various proprietary development projects and partnerships, leading to new product launches and the successful conclusion of development cooperations. The company remains focused on its long-term growth prospects, underlining this approach with a dividend proposal of €0.55 per share for 2023, reflecting both opportunities and recent acquisitions such as Natech Plastics, Inc.