Sigma-Aldrich reports growth in third quarter of 2012

Sigma-Aldrich has published its financial results for the third quarter of 2012, during which it experienced a year-on-year sales increase.

The life science firm's reported revenues for the three-month period came to $639 million (398.61 million pounds), up by two percent annually, while it was also able to achieve a strong performance in terms of free cash flow generation.

Initiatives such as new product launches and expansion in emerging markets helped to offset less favourable trends, including softening demand for its research business and SAFC division.

Overall organic sales growth for the full year is expected to come to around three percent, which is within its prior guidance range.

Sigma-Aldrich's president and chief executive officer Rakesh Sachdev said: "We remain fully committed to our strategic initiatives to support future growth and remain positive on the foundation that we have been building for growth in 2013 and beyond."

This comes after the firm recently announced plans to invest in a new powder manufacturing facility in Scotland, which will bolster its capabilities while also creating new jobs.