The Thule Group saw its sales climb by 15.0 percent to 1,157 million Swedish kronor (€109.8m-$124.6m) in the fourth quarter of 2018, with an increase of 8.0 percent in local currencies, but operating earnings declined to just one million kronor due to the anticipated under-utilization of production capacities during the ramp-up phase for new products. Sales remained strong in the past year in Europe and the rest of the world outside the U.S., rising by 10.3 percent on a constant-currency basis. The largest category, Sports & Cargo Carriers, grew by 9 percent, Active with Kids by 24 percent and RV Products by 14 percent. Packs, Bags & Luggage declined by 3 percent, despite growth in suitcases, backpacks and sports bags. More in the regular issues of The Outdoor Industry Compass.