Weak Europe Economic Conditions, Semiconductor Equipment Spending Likely Headwinds for Atlas Copco

Atlas Copco is a sharply focused supplier of capital equipment, with a selective presence in attractive market niches for engineered equipment where the firm can optimally leverage its reputation for innovation and quality products. In doing so, Atlas Copco seeks out industrial and scientific equipment categories that are considered mission-critical by their users and where it possesses or can assume a market leadership position from a technology and brand visibility standpoint. At the same time, the firm shuns significantly commoditized capital equipment categories and market segments. Its air compressor and vacuum pump and equipment businesses—its two largest, account for approximately three quarters of group EBIT—are prime examples of the firm’s discerning approach where it sports industry-leading market shares in medium- to high-end market segments.