Feb 14, 2012. /Lesprom Network/. Raute Group’s net sales in 2011 totaled Euro 74.3 million, up by 18% from 2010. The growth in net sales resulted from the improved market outlook for customer industries and from investments in developing technology services. Strong fluctuations in the order intake resulted in low net sales at the beginning and end of the year, as the company said in a press release received by Lesprom Network. The Group’s operating profit for 2011 was Euro 0.7 million in the negative and -1% of net sales (+2%). The profitability of operations excluding non-recurring items improved from the previous year due to the growth in net sales and a lighter cost structure resulting from earlier operational reorganization measures. The operating result remained negative largely due to additional costs incurred during the first quarter from the drawn-out implementation of some projects that were in the installation phase. Profitability was further weakened due to strong fluctuations in demand. 4Q net sales were Euro 14.9 million and operating result was Euro -1.1 million. Order intake was Euro 31 million and the order book stood at Euro 36 million at the end of the reporting period. Raute is a technology and service company that operates worldwide. Raute’s customers are companies operating in the wood products industry that manufacture veneer, plywood and LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber).