Fiskars, the Finnish group that trades home, garden and outdoor goods as well as boats and real estate, increased its turnover significantly in 2008: Sales grew from €647 million to €697 million. Earnings before interests and taxes, however, slipped from €106.9 million to €70.9 million. The outdoor division, which makes up 16 percent or €110 million of total sales, suffered from a weak U.S. dollar and the Swedish kronor alike. Sales decreased by 10 percent last year. The outdoor division comprises Silva of Sweden, which markets compasses, lamps and other accessories; the knives of Gerber; and the stoves and accessories of Brunton.
