Dutch focus for Heijmans

Following a string of poor financial results and management shake-ups, Heijmans has announced a plan to put the company back on track. It says its core focus will be on the Netherlands, in three key areas where it claims a strong position - property development, high-end non-residential building and infrastructure.

While Heijmans says it will continue to operate in other parts of Europe, its approach sounds non-committal. "Growth targets will not be pursued in Belgium and Germany, with the exception of large and complex infrastructure projects... Heijmans' strong niche market position in the UK will continue to be nurtured," it said in a statement.

In order to achieve its goals, the company has set out a number of policies. These include streamlining the organization to reduce overheads and establish shorter lines of communication. It also says it will take a proactive approach to managing its capital, and prioritise margins ahead of revenues. Current loss-making projects will be "Sweated out" to limit the damage, and there will be a renewed focus on risk and project management.