AGM Statement
20 Maio 2003 - 3:34PM
UK Regulatory
RNS Number:3541L
Lafarge
20 May 2003
Annual General Meeting of Lafarge Shareholders:
* Lafarge confirms its net debt reduction target of Euro1 billion for 2003
* Net dividend maintained at Euro2.30
The Annual General Meeting of Lafarge shareholders, which was held in Paris on
May 20, 2003, approved the 2002 financial statements.
At the meeting, Lafarge confirmed its net debt reduction target of Euro1 billion
for 2003 (excluding foreign exchange variations). This will be met through
strict financial discipline, combining cash flow generation, operational
performance improvement programs and a reduction in 2003 capital expenditure
target from Euro1.5 billion to Euro1.2 - Euro1.3 billion along with selective asset
disposals of Euro400 to Euro600 million.
Bernard Kasriel, in his new role as Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge, said:
"Despite the uncertain economic environment and thanks to our continuous
performance improvement programs we expect that, before foreign exchange
fluctuations, our operating income from ordinary activities will remain stable
in 2003, and this in spite of an increase in pension costs (Euro98 million)."
The Annual General Meeting voted the distribution of a net dividend per share of
Euro2.30. From June 2 to June 20, 2003 included, shareholders will have the
opportunity to reinvest dividends at a preferred purchase price of Euro51.42 per
share.
Lafarge is the world leader in building materials, and employs 77,000 people in
75 countries. The Group holds top-ranking positions in all four of its
Divisions: Cement, Aggregates & Concrete, Roofing and Gypsum. Lafarge posted
sales of Euro14.6 billion in 2002. More information is available on:
www.lafarge.com
Lafarge's next financial publication - 2003 half year sales - will be on July 24
2003 (before Euronext opening).
PRESS CONTACTS: INVESTOR RELATIONS:
Philippe Hardouin 33-1 44-34-94-14 James Palmer: 33-1 44-34-11-26
Phllippe.hardouln@lafarge.com james.palmer@lafarge.com
Brunswick: Rurik Ingram 44-20-7396-3588 Daniele Daouphars: 33-1 44-34-11-51
Cell phone : 44-79-7498-2588 daniele.daouphars@lafarge.com
Ringram@brunswickgroup.com
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
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