Capgemini predicts 2009 revenue drop

Capgemini's profit did not suffer in 2008

Outsourcing provider Capgemini today announced profit for 2008 rose to €451m (£408m) from €440m (£399m) in 2007.

Revenue was €8.71bn (£7.89bn) compared with €8.7bn (£7.89bn) in 2007, a five per cent growth on a like-for-like basis though almost equal in published figures because of the strong appreciation of the euro against the US dollar and the British pound.

Outside of the effects of the renegotiation of certain major contracts, including an amicable termination of an outsourcing contract with a broadband provider, total bookings reach €9.3bn, (£8.4bn) a rise of four per cent on 2007.

In a statement on its outlook for 2009, the company said: "In a climate of high uncertainty, the group considers that it does not have enough visibility beyond the first half. For the first six months of the year like-for-like revenue could see a modest decline. This would only have a limited impact on the operating margin, which should remain above 6.5 per cent. "