BRAZIL – For Duratex, one of the world's largest manufacturers of panel boards, the third quarter of 2013 was characterized by a period of consolidation of several investments to expand production capacity and to add new products to the Wood Division offer.

Regarding the period’s results, in 3Q-2013 sales of the division reached BRR 655,9 million, an increase of 5.7% compared to same period of last year. In the quarter EBITDA fell 1.8% to BRR 219,4 million (2Q2012: BRR 223,5 million). It is important to point out that sales for the year at the close of the third quarter reached BRR 1.830,6 million, 14.8% above sales in the same period of last year.

The trimester was also witness of various note worthy events. At the beginning of September 2013 the first MDF board from the new Itapetininga (SP) plant was dispatched, this plant has an annual production capacity of 520,000 m³. Furthermore, the investment in the unit at Taquari (RS) was completed, adding 230,000 m3 of MDF capacity thus solving production bottlenecks. Also, at the end of the quarter, the first MDF board with high gloss finish was produced, which adds to the Division’s product portfolio.

With the consolidation of these investments, it will be possible to improve Duratex Wood Division’s competitive positioning, capturing market share and improving the rates of return in this area of the business.