Simex: growth based on price hike

The Salaj-based furniture producer Simex Group posted sales of nearly 10 million dollars (7.91 million euros) in the first nine months, an increase of 11% on the same time in 2004. "Most of the growth is due to the increase in the price of furniture, given that the supply went down while demand remained constant. We achieved an increase in value to be precise, because in terms of volume we witnessed a downward trend," stated Calin Tamasan, the group''s marketing manager. The company estimates that turnover will stand at approximately 14 million dollars (11.25 million euros) this year, an increase of 12%, from 12.5 million dollars (10.06 million euros) in 2004. Simex comprises seven factories and a company that is involved in research and development besides its commercial operations. Pla ns for 2006 include both entry onto new markets and the consolidation of those on which it already operates. ZF