VNU 2001 Performance

Preview details of VNU's performance for last year outline the company's exceptional 2001 trading, including the acquisition of ACNielsen and the sale of the Consumer Information/Educational Information group.

As a result of some restructuring and change in direction, VNU claims it is now active in over 100 countries. Financially, its total 2001 revenues in terms of operating income increased by 14% to EUR 835 million from EUR 729 million. Net revenues increased by 43% to EUR 4,825 million from EUR 3,385 million.

Overall, the general economic slowdown, which initially occurred in the United States and later in Europe, has resulted in a significant decline in advertising for the company. In consequence, results in the Business Information group declined substantially. However, VNU has enjoyed a strengthening of trade within its Marketing & Media Information group. This sector secured an increase in net revenues of 7%, with organic growth in operating income amounting to 12%.

Similarly, the Directories group within VNU accounted for organic growth in revenues as well. It managed a total operating income of 1% by the end of 2001. Activities of this group, combined with Marketing & Media, now represent the major part of VNU's operating income.

Rob Van den Bergh, chairman of the executive board, summed up the company's position. '2001 was for VNU a year in which essential changes took place. The acquisition of ACNielsen and the sale of the Consumer Information group and the Educational Information group formed the final phase of a dramatic strategic reorientation. Under difficult economic conditions we have taken formal leave of these two groups in a satisfactory manner. I have full confidence in a healthy future for VNU. The transformation has given our company more focus on growth and more recession-resilience. In 2002, the attention will be strongly focused upon the further integration of ACNielsen, the utilisation of synergy opportunities and cost control."

All articles 2006-22 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas unless otherwise stated.