INSIGHT ISSUE 02 | 2021

35 A significant presence in China enabled the Group to understand the outbreak of the pandemic at an early stage. “People first” — people’s health and safety first —, technological innovation, lean manufacturing and protection of the business are the three guidelines adopted by the Group to tackle the pandemic. “People First” entailed increased investment in health and safety (+29% to €17 million), in the massive supply of medical equipment and the carrying out of tests and analyses to detect contagions, in the redefinition of procedures for the safe use of workplaces, and in the extensive use of remoteworking, in the digitalization of the Academy and initiatives in favour of the communities impacted by the virus (from donating cables to the Wuhan hospital, to citizenship initiatives also in other areas of the world). In a context that is redefining social and economic priorities, the Group has confirmed its ambition to be an energy and digitalization transition enabler. From the flagship 525 kV P-Laser cable to fibre and optical cable innovations like Sirocco, the world record cable in fibre density, and the submarine power cable for record-depth installation up to 3,000 m, the Group has strengthened its commitment to technological innovation. There was also an important focus on digitalizing its manufacturing processes (Fast Forward Project). Putting health and safety first allowed the Group to ensure supply chain and business continuity. The operations at production sites never dropped below 80%, thusmaintaining the ability to serve customers nearly unaltered (on time delivery exceeded 94%). The Group also promptly implemented a robust cost containment plan and measures to protect its cash generation capacity. COVID-19: “PEOPLE FIRST”, PROTECTION OF BUSINESS, INNOVATION/ DIGITALIZATION INSIGHT | Quarterly Overview