Oberthur records best ever Q1 sales

Following Gemplus’ announcement of strong growth earlier this week, French smart card provider Oberthur Card Systems has also revealed an increase in revenue for the first quarter of 2006.

It recorded sales of 121.9 million euros, an increase of 3.1% on the same period last year. The group delivered 56 million microprocessor cards, representing a 29.4% increase in volume year-on-year.

Its Mobile segment experienced 70.7% growth compared with Q1 2005 and its Identity & Security segment achieved sales of 10.6 million euros, up 18.9% on a year-on-year basis. Volumes for the latter segment reached 5.9 million units, representing a growth of 61.1%. Volumes were pushed by strong demand in the Pay TV and ePassport sectors and the delivery of the Moroccan ID card.

Although Oberthur’s Payment Cards market performed less well (a decrease of 23.4% compared with Q1 2005), it says that it is happy with the sequential trend. Its Other Cards segment also reported growth, with sales increasing 5% year-on-year.

The group says sales should increase during 2006. In the Identity & Security segment, the company aims to continue to broaden its participation in further projects worldwide. It is also involved in the rollout of major programmes in North America and Europe, which it says will sustain growth this year.