Milan , 05 August 2004 - The Board of Directors of Autogrill S.p.A. (Milan: AGL.MI) met today and approved the report for the first half of 20041. “In the period of the year which reflects the low season, we still improved sales and reported further important increases in margins even in Europe, where the economic scenario is not buoyant – stated Autogrill Group CEO Gianmario Tondato da Ruos. – We are determined to maintain this progress in the second half through targeted marketing efforts, cost containment and a multi-branding strategy.”