Forecast clearly exceeded

Soltau-based Zeus (Zentrale für Einkauf und Service GmbH & Co. KG) has exceeded its forecast of "slight sales growth" for the year 2006. According to the final annual results now available for 2006, the approximately 650 outlets belonging to the Zeus system (Hagebaumarkt DIY stores, Werkmarkt specialist stores and Floraland garden centres) increased their sales revenues by 3.3 per cent to € 2.2 bn. The garden sector made a significant contribution to the total result, with the 230 Hagebaumarkt garden centres showing growth of 5.4 per cent.