The international financial services segment includes the Otto Group’s financial services operations throughout the group.

In particular, the companies in the segment offer their customers retail-related products, such as consumer loans and information, arrears and receivables management services.

The segment is largely covered by financial service providers in the 3 Suisses International-Group and the internationally active EOS Group. Accelerated internationalisation has rendered positive sales growth in the segment. The Otto Group is looking to further strengthen its favourable position in financial services, specifically through regional expansion in central and eastern Europe.

Cofidis companies were primary contributors to the growth in revenues from consumer loans. With top line growth in 2007/08, the EOS Group also clearly exceeded expectations.

The EOS Group manages roughly 20,000 customers worldwide - from banks and insurance companies, manufacturers and distance sellers through to power utilities, telecommunications and IT companies.