Comparison between actual business performance and guidance

In our 2013 reports, we expected organic sales growthorganic sales growth
Growth in revenues after adjusting for effects arising from acquisitions, divestments and foreign exchange differences – i.e. “top line” growth generated from within.
of between 3 and 5 percent for the Henkel Group in fiscal 2013. Compared to the figures for 2012, we expected adjusted return on sales (EBIT)return on sales (EBIT)
Operating business metric derived from the ratio of EBIT to revenues. Also known as EBIT margin.
to increase to about 15 percent, and adjusted earnings per preferred share to rise by about 10 percent.

We delivered on our sales and earnings guidance. Our organic growth rate of 3.5 percent is within the guidance corridor. Each of the three business units made an important contribution to this growth. At Group level, we also posted a significant increase in adjusted return on sales from 14.1 to 15.4 percent, as well as a 10.0 percent improvement in adjusted earnings per preferred share, increasing the figure to 4.07 euros (2012: 3.70 euros).

Additionally, prices for direct materials (raw materials, packaging, and purchased goods and services) remained at the level of the prior year, as anticipated in our reports for 2013. Our restructuring expenses totaled 159 million euros, exceeding the expected level of 125 million euros. This reflects our ongoing efforts to adjust our structures promptly to changing market conditions. We invested 404 million euros in property, plant and equipment. We adjusted a number of individual project schedules in response particularly to the geopolitical situation in Africa/Middle East.