Umicore’s Business ApproachFocus on applications

Umicore focuses on providing products (materials, compounds and catalysts) and services based on precious and specialty metals. The development of new products and new services is dictated by the requirements of Umicore’s customers and its customers’ customers. Through our focus on applications and the offer of flexible solutions, we strive for market leadership in all selected areas where we are present.

Adding value

Umicore is active over a large segment of the value chain, looking for ways to add value beyond the production of refined metals. We seek to develop and produce products and services that have a specific added value for our customers. This frequently involves close joint development efforts.

Closing the loop

Recycling is a core part of our business. The ability to close the materials loop represents a vital service to many customers and offers us a key competitive advantage. Closing the loop also offers direct economic and environmental benefits and is a key element in the long-term success of the business.

Excellence in innovation, technology and operations

In the fast-moving arena of materials technology the importance of innovation is paramount. We invest in and encourage product and process innovation throughout the business. Continuous improvement of both the cost base and product quality in our operations also remains vital in order to prosper as a materials business.

Being the best employer and neighbour

As a dynamic, responsible and technology-oriented business our success depends on being able to attract and retain the right people. Our licence to operate is also derived from transparent communication with our stakeholders especially people living close to our operations. We aim to be the best possible employer and neighbour.

Environmental stewardship

We carefully manage our environmental footprint. This involves seeking constant improvement in our environmental performance as well as addressing any historical issues connected with our past operations.

Value creation

Umicore seeks to generate economic value through its existing businesses and any acquisitions or organic growth initiatives that it undertakes. This entails generating a return on capital employed (recurring pre-tax operating profit / average capital employed for the period) in excess of our overall Group pre-tax cost of capital. This cost of capital can vary over time in function of our risk profile and the state of the world’s debt and equity markets. Umicore aims to create value for shareholders in the medium term. This is achieved in the first instance through achieving solid operational performance. We seek to grow our existing businesses and also to enter markets which have attractive growth potential and to develop leadership positions within these markets. From a financial perspective we aim to safeguard our business through sound financial management and by maintaining a strong balance sheet. We have no fixed target regarding debt levels but we aim to maintain an investment grade status at all times.

Umicore - Precious Metals Chemistry Materials

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