Haulotte has posted a record first half sales of EUR403.7 million (USD443.9 million), up 40% on the first half of last year, on increased sales and selling prices and lower component prices.

The French telehandler and aerial work platform manufacturer says sales rose in all regions:

• In Europe, sales rose by 25%, driven by all markets except Russia, which is at a standstill;
• In Asia-Pacific, sales increased by 36%, driven mainly by Australia;
• In North America, sales were up 85%, largely driven by the aerial work platform business, which grew by 130% year-on-year; and
• In Latin America, sales growth was 47%, driven by sales in Brazil.

Haulotte says in the first half equipment sales grew 44%, rental sales by 5% and services by 17%.

The company’s current operating income, excluding foreign exchange gains and losses, was  EUR13.3 million (USD14.3 million), or +3.3% of sales, fuelled by strong volume growth and sales price increases and slowing production cost increases.

Haulotte says it expects revenue growth of 25% to 30% for the full year.