During the quarter, its plants were operating at high use rates in Lithuania, Thailand and the US.

Its net profit after taxes increased to Bt224 million, from Bt203 million, despite the stronger baht and margin pressure.

Next Amazing Grand Sale

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) plans to hold the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale between June and August and the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale Fair 2007 next month, both aimed at stimulating spending during the low season.

Governor Phornsiri Manoharn said yesterday the three-month-long campaign was expected to boost spending, particularly in major tourism venues like Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Hat Yai.

Major department stores and shopping complexes will award altogether 10 round-trip airline tickets, two nights' free accommodation in a Bangkok hotel and a Visa cash card worth Bt25,000.

The TAT and NCC Exhibition Organiser will co-host the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale Fair 2007 from June 21-24, featuring a variety of quality products, services and tourist attractions at discounts of 10-50 per cent.

FedEx serves new EU states

FedEx Express has expanded its FedEx International Priority Direct Distribution single point of clearance service to 12 new EU countries, making it now available to all 27 EU members.

Consolidated shipments from one origin country in Asia-Pacific can now be sent to multiple recipients in any EU country, all under one international air waybill and one consolidated commercial invoice.

Customers requiring time-definite delivery of their shipments to multiple destinations, especially those in the electronics, automotive and pharmaceutical industries, will enjoy various additional benefits.