Tarkett Reports Higher Sales in 2011

Paris, France, March 9, 2012 -- Tarkett said that net sales grew by 8.8% in 2011 over 2010 to $2.77 billion.

Net income was $33 million for the year.

The company said the increase resulted from organic growth (6.8%) and from acquisitions (2.8%), while exchange rates had a slightly unfavorable impact (0.7%).

Organic growth came mostly from emerging countries (Eastern Europe, South America), where sales were up by 21% vs. 2010.

Emerging countries now account for 38% of total sales, compared 34% in 2010.

Tarkett said the Western Europe and North America flooring markets have been relatively stable.

Tarkett said sales grew by 5% in Western Europe and by 2% in North America.

Sales of sports surfaces (mainly artificial turf and running tracks) fell by 9% vs. 2010, mainly due to budget cuts initiated by local communities in Europe.