In the first eight months of 2013, the Jotun Group reported sales of paint and powder coatings of NOK 8 174 million. This is an increase from NOK 7 686 million in the same period last year. The increase of 6% is in particular driven by larger sales in Middle East and Central Asia. The Group’s operating profit for the period from January to the end of August was NOK 1 050 million, an increase of 18% compared to last year. Sales within the Marine segment are declining as a result of the contraction in the newbuilding market. The market is not expected to pick up in the short-term. Jotun’s total investments were NOK 489 million for the year’s first eight months. Jotun’s equity ratio was 52% at the end of August 2013. The company has sufficient liquidity and little net interest bearing debt.