For fiscal year 2023, we do not expect selling, general, and administrative expenses (before special itemsBefore special itemsIn order to measure the operating performance extending over several periods, key performance measures are adjusted by special items, where applicable. Adjusted measures are labelled with “before special items”. A reconciliation table is available within the respective quarterly or annual report and presents the composition of special items.) as a percentage of consolidated net revenue to slightly decrease compared to 2022 (2022: 14.6%).
Tax Rate
For fiscal year 2023, we do expect a tax rate in a range between 24% and 25% (2022: 23.7%).
Cost and efficiency program
Structural productivity improvements are expected to offset market headwinds and to create financial flexibility for future growth investments in the coming years. The new target is to achieve annual structural cost savings of around €1 billion at EBITEBIT (Earnings before Interest and Taxes)EBIT does include depreciation and write-ups on property, plant and equipment. EBIT is calculated by subtracting costs of revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses, and research and development expenses from revenue. level from the fiscal year 2025 onwards. To achieve the targeted cost savings, one-time costs of around €700 to €750 million are expected at EBIT level, of which around 2 / 3 will be incurred in the year.
In order to reach this goal, Fresenius is running targeted programs across all business segments and the Corporate Center with the oversight and steering of the Group. Key elements include measures to optimize the network, sales and administrative costs, procurement, as well as divesting from non-core assets.
Thanks to our cost and efficiency program we have already realized €152 million in savings after taxes and non-controlling interests in fiscal year 2022, offset by €260 million in one-time costs. In line with previous practice, these expenses are classified as special items.
Fresenius Medical Care will accelerate and extend its FME25 transformation program to further optimize processes along the new operating model. Fresenius Medical Care increases the savings target for the program from €500 million to €650 million by 2025 and now expects to invest up to €650 million in the same period.
By the end of 2022, Fresenius Medical Care delivered €131 million (on EBIT level) of sustainable savings under the FME25 program, exceeding the original target of €40 million to €70 million for the same period.
In further support of its turnaround efforts the Company will drive additional operational efficiency and cost reduction measures. In Care Delivery, this will include productivity and operating leverage improvements in the core dialysisDialysisForm of renal replacement therapy where a semipermeable membrane – in peritoneal dialysis the peritoneum of the patient, in hemo dialysis the membrane of the dialyzer – is used to clean a patient’s blood. services business. In Care Enablement, Fresenius Medical Care will focus on pricing initiatives, productivity measures and review of its global manufacturing footprint.