Sales

In percentage terms, the composition of sales growth in 2009, compared to 2008, is presented in the table below.

Group sales amounted to EUR 23,189 million in 2009, a 12% decline compared to 2008. Adjusted for a favorable 1% currency effect and an unfavorable impact of portfolio changes, comparable sales were 11% below 2008. The decline in comparable sales was largely attributable to the challenging economic environment, particularly in the consumer markets and in North America.

Consumer Lifestyle reported a 17% comparable sales decline largely due to weakened consumer markets, visible in both mature and emerging markets, and selective portfolio pruning, mainly the exit of certain markets and products, such as DVD recorders. Comparable sales declines were seen in all businesses except Health & Wellness.

Sales at Lighting were 13% lower than in 2008, impacted by weakness in the commercial construction environment and automotive market. This resulted in year-on-year declines in all businesses.

Healthcare sales declined 3% on a comparable basis, largely impacted by the economic recession and the uncertainty around healthcare reform in the US. Lower sales were visible at Healthcare Informatics, Clinical Care Systems, and Imaging Systems, partly tempered by moderate growth at Customer Services and Home Healthcare Solutions.