key figures First quarter 08
third consecutive quarter of sustained revenue growth
revenue
up 3.7% on a comparable basis to euro13 billion
gross operating margin grew 4.6%
on a comparable basis to euro 4.8 billion
with a 0.3 point improvement in margin rate to 36.8%
2008 objectives confirmed
key indicators for the 1st quarter 2008
Commenting on the first quarter 2008 results, Didier Lombard, Chairman and CEO
of France Telecom, stated: “It gives me great pleasure to present to you
today our first quarter results, which confirm the effectiveness of our growth
strategy and the ongoing efforts of our employees to transform the Group. This
is indeed our third consecutive quarter of strong growth. Revenues increased
across all our business segments and geographic areas, driven particularly by
a return to growth in the mature markets of Western Europe, including France.
“An improvement in our operating profitability, which has now been stable
for four consecutive quarters, has gone hand-in-hand with the increase in revenues.
The Group is thus in a position to confirm with confidence our financial objectives
for 2008.
“Against this background, all the necessary conditions are in place for
the Group to take part in the consolidation of the European sector, while scrupulously
honouring our commitments, particularly with regard to our dividend policy and
a gearing ratio consistent with our medium-term goals.
