Mar 12, 2010. /Lesprom Network/. International technology Group Andritz recorded a solid business development in the 2009 financial year in spite of the generally difficult economic environment. Sales of the Andritz Group amounted to approximately Euro 3.2 billion, thus 11% below the record figure for 2008. Order intake, at over Euro 3.3 billion, remained on a very solid level, only 10% below the high value of 2008, company said in a statement received by Lesprom Network. The order backlog at the end of 2009 amounted to approximately Euro 4.4 billion and was thus slightly higher than at the end of 2008. Due to the decline in sales and one-off restructuring expenses of approximately Euro 29 million, the Group’s EBITA declined to Euro 164.1 million (2008: Euro 233.2 million). Profitability (EBITA margin) amounted to 5.1% (2008: 6.5%) – excluding these one-off restructuring expenses, the EBITA margin was 6.0% (2008: 6.8%). Net income (excl. non-controlling interests) amounted to Euro 96.8 million (2008: Euro 139.7 million). At the Annual General Meeting, the Executive Board will propose a dividend payment of Euro 1.00 per share (2008: Euro 1.10), which is equivalent to an increase in the payout ratio to 52.9% (2008: 40.3%). The Andritz Group is a globally leading supplier of plants and services for the hydropower, pulp and paper, metals, and other specialized industries (solid/liquid separation, feed and biofuel).