Download the file. - Groupe Seb

3
GOVERNANCE
We have therefore embarked upon 2013 with cautious optimism
and we are ready to adapt our management approach to the
unstable economic context and to any changes in the situation.
In this respect, 2013 will no doubt be a year of transition, which will
demand a strong ability to adapt, irreproachable processes, targeted
and smart investments and tight cost control. But at the same time,
as the industry leader, Groupe SEB is responsible for stimulating the
market and is striving to achieve this, in particular through a robust
product plan across all of its markets, supported by reinforced
advertising resources deployed across diverse media, including the
increased use of new technologies and the growth in digital.
This plan is based on several pilot products – the new range of
steam generators, the Infiny Press juicer, the Optigrill meat grill etc.
– and on the international expansion of our 2012 successes such
as the Soup & Co heating blender and the Freemove iron... which
will help boost the market.
Our 2013 objectives are to gradually re-establish the organic growth
in our sales, consolidate our market positions and maintain our
operating result from activity.
A MEANINGFUL GENERALIST STRATEGY
In the medium to long term, I am convinced that our strategy of a
generalist player in small domestic equipment – a strategy founded
on growth and competitiveness and based on a solid financial
structure and a stable shareholder base - will ensure the continued
and sustainable growth of Groupe SEB.
For decades now, we have been expanding our sphere of activity
and we now have an extensive range; we have been responsible for
a large number of innovations in this sector; we have strengthened
our portfolio of brands and we have developed a truly global
presence. We have a powerful industrial base, the dimensions of
which give us a competitive edge over our competitors; due to its
widespread geographical coverage, it also guarantees the flexibility
and proximity that are crucial to better serve our markets.
With the backing of all these advantages, Groupe SEB has the means
to reach all consumers around the world, to significantly increase
its market shares in several mature markets and to continue its rapid
expansion in emerging countries.
I do not believe that there will be a long-lasting slowdown in demand
in our industry, in any country. Small domestic equipment is a
seller's market, in which growth is and will be led by the capacity
of companies to anticipate and satisfy the needs of the majority and
to enhance demand through the launch of innovative and attractive
products that are correctly targeted in terms of price.
Thanks to the support of its shareholders and to a collective dynamic
conveyed by professional and passionate teams, Groupe SEB will
continue to succeed and grow. No matter what stormy waters we
must weather, we shall firmly hold on to the helm and remain
confident in the future.
Thierry de La Tour d’Artaise
Chairman and CEO