Czech glass maker Crystalex saw its total sales rise by nearly 10% to CZK 1.72 BN in 2007, but posted a loss of CZK 11M, Karel Samec, spokesman for Bohemia Crystalex Trading (BCT), the largest Czech glassmaking group, said recently. The loss was caused mainly by the strong crown and expenditure on the launch of a new product line for hotels and restaurants, Mr. Samec said. Investments in projects exceeded CZK 30M. "Further money were invested in new technologies", Mr. Samec said. The group also invested in the development of a crystal material called Sparkle, developed in cooperation with scientists. The return on investments is expected within three years, Mr. Samec said, adding that "The reaction of customers is bigger than we have expected." Crystalex is part of BCT, which ranks among the world's ten largest glassmakers, employing nearly 5,400. Crystalex's plants, the largest of them being Crystalex Novy Bor, employ 1,920. The BCT group also comprises Sklarny Kavalier, Sklo Bohemia and Sklarny Bohemia. According to preliminary data, BCT carried out orders in 2007 worth CZK 5.555 billion, CZK 60 million more than in the previous year. Sales were markedly higher but losses caused by the crown's exchange rate amounted to CZK 360 million. In spite of that, BCT recorded a preliminary operating profit of over CZK 100 million, Mr. Samec said. Exports accounted for 90% of the sales. The group exports goods to 85 countries, mainly to the USA, western Europe and Russia.
