Agfa-Gevaert cuts outlook

Sales rose about 9% in the second quarter for Agfa-Gevaert, but the good news may not last. The company warned that profits are falling short of expectations due to higher exceptional expenses and to production and administrative costs. Profits may not return to previous levels until sometime next year. Executives expect to release a plan to regain profitability on Sept. 27. The plan will focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness but will not alter the company’s strategy of further expansion and acquisition in digital imaging.