Atlas Copco: Brock Comments on Atlas Copco's Q1 results 2006

"It is a real achievement to be able, on top of an already veryprofitable operation, to increase our operating profits with yetanother 63%."

Order intake for the Atlas Copco Group in total increased 39%, toMSEK 16 614 (11 990) in the first quarter, an increase of 22% involume for comparable units. Revenues were MSEK 14 863 (11 168), up17% in volume. Operating profit totaled MSEK 2 771 (1 695), a marginof 18.6% (15.2). Profit before tax improved 52% to MSEK 2 606 (1 709).

During 2005 Atlas Copco increased its investment in R&D andproduct development. This trend is continuing in 2006. "We areaccelerating the introduction of new products, and the increasedmarket presence and penetration through more feet on the street isclearly paying off."

The near-term demand outlook for Atlas Copco's products andservices is expected to remain at the current high level from allmajor customer segments. "The construction industry, among others, isdeveloping well which is benefiting our ranges of construction tools,surface drilling equipment, portable compressors, and equipmentrental."

The process of divesting the construction equipment rentalbusiness is proceeding according to plan.

Atlas Copco is a world leading provider of industrial productivitysolutions. The products and services range from compressed air and gasequipment, generators, construction and mining equipment, industrialtools and assembly systems, to related aftermarket and rental. Inclose cooperation with customers and business partners, and with morethan 130 years of experience, Atlas Copco innovates for superiorproductivity. Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, the Group's globalreach spans more than 150 markets. In 2005, Atlas Copco had 27 000employees and revenues of BSEK 53 (MEUR 5 600). Learn more atwww.atlascopco.com.

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