France-based global supplier and developer of software and hardware dedicated to industrial users of textiles, leather, and other soft materials, Lectra, has reported that results for the first quarter saw the company’s sales close to break even as it stated that sales of new systems were especially hard-hit by the abolition of textile quotas as of January 1, 2005.

Orders for new software licenses and equipment had decreased by 30% compared with the same period in 2004. There was a growth in orders for new systems from China (up 55% like-for-like), and from Japan (up 64%). Asia-Pacific accounted for 36% of orders, compared with 19% in the first quarter of 2004. All the other regions, with a handful of exceptions, were down (Europe accounted for 40% of orders, versus 52% last year). However, it was not all bad news, revenues from software evolution contracts and recurring services contracts showed a 12% rise.

Lectra is present across a broad array of major markets, including fashion and apparel; luggage & leather goods; footwear; furniture & furnishings; and the automotive, aerospace, and marine industries. With a staff of 1,600 worldwide, Lectra serves more than 17,000 customers in over 100 countries.

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