Sigma-Aldrich highlights organic growth in first quarter of 2015

Sigma-Aldrich has announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2015, during which it generated a reported sales total of $676 million (429.44 million pounds).

Although this represented a two percent decline from the same quarter in 2014, this was due to a shift in foreign currency exchange rates. In organic terms, sales grew by five percent year over year.

Its research business unit saw growth across all segments and geographies, while its applied business unit experienced double-digit growth within its diagnostics and testing business. Meanwhile, the SAFC Commercial unit was bolstered by strong results within the life science services and life sciences product segments.

This week, SAFC Commercial completed the expansion of its St Louis facility, while also announcing that it will be expanding its site in Carlsbad, California.

Rakesh Sachdev, president and chief executive officer at Sigma-Aldrich, said: "Despite a significant negative sales impact from unfavourable year-over-year changes in foreign currency exchange rates, the company expanded adjusted operating margin and grew adjusted operating income."

The company is also preparing for its acquisition by Merck KGaA, which is expected to close midway through the year.