Comparex Informationssysteme GmbH reckons that after a lengthy pause in growth, it is about to slowly start growing again, buoyed up by the improved West German market for plug compatible products, as well as by the new dynamic East German market. Mannheim-based Comparex reported a turnover, at its interim stage, of around $800m, and claims that prospects for the second half are expected to be as good. Turnover within West Germany was up 16% to $397m, while domestic sales as a whole rose to over 49%. European subsidiary companies saw sales fall by 7% to $295m, dragged down by the UK and Northern Europe. Turnover from distributors in and outside Europe came to approximately $110m. Comparex says that mainframe sales remain strong, contributing 43% of total sales; however, the peripherals business was merely described as satisfactory and sales revenues declined in this sector reflecting more competitive pricing. Turnover from service contracts rose by 10% to the equivalent of $139m, while the rental business grew by 11% achieving a turnover of $277m. As for the next six months, Comparex expects a steady upward trend in export markets as well as a year-end turnover figure showing steady single-digit growth.
