Option has record quarter
PC data card maker Option had its best ever quarter in the three months to the end of December 2005. The company recorded revenues up 100% from the equivalent quarter last year, at EUR63.9 million, with net earnings for the quarter of EUR9.2 million.
The final qaurter took full year revenues to EUR198.6 million, a 93.5 increase on 2004. Net earning were EUR29 million against EUR17.7 million in 2004.
The gross margin was 42.5% over the year, with EBIT at EUR38.8 million.
Option’s sale have clearly been given a lift by the launch of 3G and now HSDPA services, most of which are initiated with data card services for laptop users. Options competitors in this market are the likes of Sierra Wireless, SonyEricsson, Lucent and Merlin. Option’s 3G cards are regarded as market leading and are used by Vodafone and Orange, amongst others.