Interceramic reports record Q4 sales, operating income and EBITDA

CHIHUAHUA, Mexico -- Interceramic reported record sales of $259.8 million in 2000, a 10.4% increase over the $235.3 million in sales achieved in 1999. Better selling prices in both Mexico and the international markets, and a reduction in certain costs, led to improved operating results, with the company reporting record operating income of $27.0 million, a 28.2% increase over 1999 operating income of $21.1 million.

In addition, Interceramic said its operating margin of 10.39% for 2000 was 1.5 points better than its 8.90% margin in 1999. The company also reported record EBITDA of $40.1 million in 2000, a 17% increase over EBITDA of $34.2 million in 1999. More free cash translated to lower debt, with net debt decreasing from $138.9 million at the end of 1999 to $115.2 million at the end of 2000.