The year 2012 was characterized by continued turbulence in the global economy, but despite this changeling conditions, the Swedish group Skanska was able to report strong results and increasing revenues for construction segment. Also, the company communicated a good evolution of the project development activity, taking vital steps in the international market. The business model proven to be efficient an well adapted to the weak general economic situation. Company continued his investments and succeed in divestment its own developed residential units, offices etc. According to the opinion of Skanska CEO, Johan Karlström, in residential development a strong focus was on enhancing efficiency to pave the way for sustained profitability, by linking the construction and residential units closer together and thus reducing overheads. In Poland the market presence was strenghtened on the segment of commercial property development. Also, in Bucharest, Romania, was established a subsidiary, because of the increasing demand for modern and sustainable offices for international companies. Energy efficiency is also one of the main concerns nowadays for Skanska, in order to the deceleration of global warming. In the vision of the group management, one of the greatest challenges is work-site safety, and was registered an important progress in this direction. As for the future, uncertainty continues to dominate the outlook for 2013. After almost five years of economic European crisis, the double-dip and triple-dip recessions and the fiscal cliff, there are few analysts venturing to predict an impending improvement in the world economy. However, there are some indications that a cautious recovery may come later in 2013. The construction industry is subject to a lag in the business cycle and consequently there may be a delay in its impact on Skanska operations. Even in this circumstances, the management think there are growth opportunities in the selected home markets, the company capacity being not completely maximized in this regions. In present days, the strong urbanization trend creates a demand for infrastructure and energy, and Skanska with its expertise could contribute to the betterment of communities lives. For further information and a detailed analysis of the current Agenda Constructiilor issue click here!