Exide Industries’ profits remained flat at Rs 104 crore in the October-December 2012 period compared to the same period last year, due to rise in input costs.
Its net sales grew 17 per cent to Rs 1,462 crore.
Profits, however, declined by 13 per cent, on a sequential basis, compared to July-September 2012 quarter.
“The quarter witnessed a continuous upward move in lead prices which combined with depreciation of rupee vis-à-vis US dollar, resulted in significant cost push and consequent pressure on margins,” Managing Director and CEO T.V. Ramanathan was quoted saying in a company press release.
Automotive batteries saw 25 per cent volume growth in replacement sales during the quarter.
Sales of solar batteries too, doubled during the period.