Wide-format printer manufacturer NUR has issued a profit warning following lower than expected sales in the US.


The firm said it expected to break even for the first quarter 2001 before taking account of a one-off 1.75m ($2.5m) restructuring charge.


"Our sales in the US have been strongly affected by the current economic uncertainty," said president and chief executive Erez Shachar. "We continue to witness growth in other regions." Sales are expected to be up 44% on last year at 22m.


It is cutting its costs to reflect the slower growth, but continues its planned investments in R&D, servicing, training and quality control. "This situation is only temporary and does not reflect a structural change in our industry," said Shachar.