Straumann reported a 4.6% drop in third-quarter sales worldwide but is confident it will still outperform the market in 2009, the implant maker said in a press release.
Sales for the quarter were CHF168.2 million ($164.9 million), compared to CHF176.40 million ($173.4 million) for the same quarter a year ago.
In Europe, Straumann's largest region, net revenue reached CHF 346 million ($340 million, 63% of sales) in the first nine months of 2009, while net revenues in North America fell 4% year over year to CHF 117 million ($115 million)in the same period. North America accounts for 21% of the company's revenues.
Looking ahead, Straumann said that "continuing uncertainty in the global economy and weak consumer confidence make it difficult to guide for the short and mid term. On the basis of published results and available research, the overall market for implant, restorative, and regenerative dentistry is expected to contract in the mid-single digit range in 2009."
Even so, the company said it expects full-year revenues to be in the CHF730-740 million ($717-$727 million) range, "thanks to continuing efficiency and cost management initiatives, which will more than offset increased investments in innovation, marketing, and product development."
