Valtra succeeds well in 2006 despite tougher markets

06.03.2007

The Suolahti factory in Finland manufactured more than 10,300 tractors, our highest production ever, while the Mogi das Cruzes factory in Brazil manufactured more than 7,300 tractors. Total combined production at Valtra factories was therefore 17,600 tractors.

Total sales of tractors in terms of units increased by 11 percent. Valtra strengthened its position as the leading tractor brand in Northern Europe. In addition to the traditional home markets, Valtra sales increased significantly in France, which for the first time became Valtra’s largest market in Europe in terms of volumes.

Valtra’s 2006 net sales from tractors in the Europe, Africa and Middle East (EAME) showed an increase of 3 percent. The operating result for the AGCO EAME region improved during 2006 compared to 2005. Valtra EAME contributed positively to this development. The growth came from increased sales, improved productivity and a larger market share for more advanced and powerful tractors.

The model line-up of the N Series, which was launched at the end of 2005, was expanded in 2006 with the addition of the top Advance model. The N Series has proven itself a big success and complements well Valtra’s current and future product range. Together with the new R&D Centre that was completed in 2006, investments in streamlining production operations are facilitating ongoing R&D projects and the marketing of new tractor models.

This year has begun with a very strong order backlog. In this situation Suolahti plant has temporary increased its capacity by special working time arrangements.

More information:
Matti Ruotsala, VP, Managing Director, +358 400 487 052, matti.ruotsala@valtra.com

www.valtra.com

Founded in 1990, AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AG) (www.agcocorp.com) is a global manufacturer of agricultural equipment and related replacement parts. AGCO offers a full product line including tractors, combines, hay tools, sprayers, forage, tillage equipment and implements, which are distributed through more than 3,600 independent dealers and distributors in more than 140 countries worldwide. AGCO products include the following well-known brands: AGCO®, Challenger®, Fendt®, Gleaner®, Hesston®, Massey Ferguson®, New Idea®, RoGator®, Spra-Coupe®, Sunflower®, Terra-Gator®, Valtra®, and White™ Planters. AGCO provides retail financing through AGCO Finance. The company is headquartered in Duluth, Georgia, and in 2006, had net sales of $5.4 billion.

Valtra develops, manufactures, markets and services Valtra tractors. Valtra is the leading tractor manufacturer in the Nordic countries and the second most popular brand in Latin America. Net sales in 2006 amounted to 869 million euros and the number of employees to 2300, including Valtra do Brasil and Sisu Diesel. Total production in Finland and Brazil amounted to 17,555 tractors. Valtra is a worldwide brand of AGCO Corporation.

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