Qiagen sales grow five percent in third quarter

Qiagen's net sales rose five percent to $288.9 million (180.3 million pounds) in the third quarter of 2011.

The outcome was broadly in line with expectations, with chief executive Peer Schatz forecasting faster sales growth for the company in the latter stages of the year and in 2012.

"We are making good progress on strategic initiatives to drive growth at a stronger level," he commented.

Mr Schatz said the firm has seen significant demand for its QIAsymphony molecular testing machine, which he claimed is "setting new standards in lab automation".

Chief financial officer at Qiagen Roland Sackers indicated that sales in the company's molecular diagnostics division are expected to grow significantly during the fourth quarter.

Adjusted operating income fell five percent to $74.8 million during the third quarter.

The firm completed its acquisition of Cellestis, the Australian company that develops QuantiFERON technology products for medical diagnosis and scientific research, in August.