Increased demand and continued strong performance

Message from Erik Olsson, the president and CEO: 

Posten's business is growing and delivering good results. The group's sales increased by 9 percent and operating earnings increased by SEK 659m to SEK 1,601m for the year's first nine months compared to the same period in 2005. Our more intensive efforts on the market have shown results.We have also been able to use the potential created by Sweden's strong economy, the flourishing advertising market, and the increasing domestic and global trade, all of which result in increased demand for our communication and logistic solutions.  

Strålfors became a part of the group on May 22nd. The integration process, which aims to encourage and develop the business synergies was initiated in June and is running according to plan. Strålfors' broad geographic base in Europe means that Posten has a stronger and more diverse range of services for Swedish companies while we have also solidified our position in the information logistics market.  

On October 31st, the Swedish National Post and Telecom Agency will submit its report to the government, in which it will more specifically define the requirement for nationwide cashier services and provide an overview of different user groups' needs for payment services. My hope is that the government will soon declare its position on the suggestions submitted by this agency, thereby reducing the uncertainty for the employees and customers at the Cashier Service.  

Our success on the logistics market requires that we offer our own attractive logistics services in the Nordic region, and that we establish competitive cooperation in international networks. As of January 1st 2007, Posten will have a new corporate structure. It will mean a more intensive focus in each market area, with the goal of making us an even more clearly defined and competitive business partner for our customers.  

The complete report can be downloaded from the link below.  

Please direct any questions: 
Posten's Press Office, tel: + 46 (0)8-23 10 10, e-mail: press@posten.se 

Posten connects people and organizations around the world by delivering mail promptly, reliably and cost-effectively. We drive value creation by combining conventional postal services and convenient electronic solutions, and integrating these services into customer businesses. With over 4,000 retail service outlets, we provide daily service to 4.5 million homes and 900,000 businesses in Sweden. Every day we handle close to 20 million pieces of mail. With sales of over SEK 25 billion and roughly 30,000 employees, the group is one of the largest in Sweden. The group's parent, Posten AB (publ), is wholly owned by the Swedish Government. For more information, please visit our website at www.posten.se