Merck 2008 Annual Report Download - page 61

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56 | Merck Annual Report 2008
Performance & Life Science Chemicals
Specialty chemicals from Merck are important components of the process chain from
drug development to industrial production. They ensure reliable analysis in research
and dependable production processes. Expertise in chemistry and customer-centric
innovations have made us a successful supplier to the pharmaceutical, cosmetics,
food, plastics, coatings and printing industries. We find answers to challenges in envi-
ronmental protection, production safety and product protection. Our goal is to further
expand our expertise in regulated markets and in markets with high barriers to entry.
The division operates in three business areas:
The success of the Laboratory Business is based on a long tradition. We offer a broad
portfolio of laboratory chemicals in a range of product grades including the relevant
certificates of analysis, thus ensuring consistent and comparable results.
Life Science Solutions focuses on customer needs in a variety of sectors such as the
pharmaceutical industry. We offer products and solutions using the latest technological
expertise in chemical and biotechnological processes.
The Pigments business develops and manufactures innovative effect pigments for use in
coatings, packaging and product design. Not only decorative, but also security-relevant
aspects, for example brand and anti-counterfeit protection, are important here.
Key events in 2008
– High sales level maintained, organic growth of 4.0%
– Operating result increases by 15%, return on sales of 13.4%
– Double-digit growth in several important Asian markets