US-based performance polymer producer Kraton Polymers LLC has posted improved financial results for the three-month period ended March 31.

Total revenues were $247 million compared with $229 million in the 2006 period, an increase of 8%. This improvement was driven by increased sales volume and favourable currency effects. Year-on-year, first quarter sales volume increased 7%.

However, gross profit decreased $20 million, or 38%, to $32 million compared with $52 million in the prior-year quarter, primarily due to higher raw material costs.

The company’s polymers are used in a wide range of applications including footwear, adhesives, coatings, packaging, and automotive products. It has production facilities in the USA, the Netherlands, Germany, France, Brazil and Japan.