Annual Report 2017
Delivering on our strategy
Delivering on our strategy
Umicore set a record performance in 2017 reaching the value creation level that we set ourselves as a long-term goal and bringing more balance to our portfolio of activities.
Experts in materials technology and recycling
We focus on applications where our expertise makes a real difference.
REBIT
+56% vs 2014
Revenues
+9% annual growth
Revenues from clean mobility & recycling
Recurring EPS
per share
Horizon 2020 progress
Our progress is measured against the Horizon 2020 strategic plan which we launched in 2015, aiming to make Umicore a clear leader in clean mobility materials and recycling, while doubling company earnings, balancing the contribution from the three business groups, and turning our leadership in sustainability into a greater competitive edge -- and we are making clear progress in most areas.
Horizon 2020
Environment as a catalyst for improvement
We systematically review processes and behavior in Hoboken, but we were surprised by increased levels of lead in blood of a small number of children when we renovated our lead refinery roof. We immediately mobilized the entire factory to identify improvement opportunities and average concentration of lead in fine dust (PM10) has once again decreased to acceptable levels. We are working hard toward further improvements with our research department and external consultants.
Improving gender diversity in senior management
The bottom-up initiative ‘Focus on Women’ was started by six female managers. Combined with our Coaching Circles – coaching, training, mentoring, and networking for female leadership – it seeks to increase awareness about the huge pool of female talent and to inspire female colleagues. Gender diversity is a win-win for Umicore.
Powering towards a future in electric Vehicles
Battery technology will need to evolve to do more with less: more power density and longer range with less weight and material. Umicore is exploring iterative improvements to NMC technology and the use of high-density composite anodes.
Smooth integration of Haldor Topsoe’s DeNOx technology
Our acquisition of Haldor Topsoe’s heavy-duty diesel (HDD) and stationary catalyst businesses of the Danish company further enhanced Umicore’s leadership in products for clean mobility and clean air. The acquisition and integration processes demonstrated a very strong fit between the organizations as both businesses are technology-driven with a strong focus on sustainability and operational excellence.