Leiden-based biotech firm Crucell on Thursday announced that it made a profit in 2008, the first time the company has done so since being set up 15 years ago.

Crucell booked net profit of €14.6m last year, compared with a net loss of €42.9m in 2007, the company said in a statement.
Turnover rose 33% to €283.3m.
The company said it is optimistic for the coming year and expects a turnover rise of 20% for 2009 at constant currency exchange rates. It does not expect to be negatively hit by the poor economic climate.
‘I am very proud that for the first time in the history of our company, we achieved profitability,’ said Crucell CEO Ronald Brus. ‘Our sense of shared purpose is stronger than ever, and we look forward to ongoing growth.’