In its latest set of interims, Wincor Nixdorf reported a a continued decline in net sales for the first nine months of the year and a significant fall in operating profits. Operating profit (EBITA) after restructuring expenses amounted to €40 million (€92 million), down 57% on the figure posted for the same period a year ago. The company has allocated €80 million to a restructuring programme this year that aims to boost its software business while drastically reducing its reliance on hardware sales. For Diedbold, the proposed $59.58 per share offer will provide the US firm with a foothold in the European ATM and eftpos markets - where it has struggled in the past to gain traction. The companies have gone dark over their plans for a future tie-up while undertaking the necessary due diligence. In a statement, they say: "There can be no assurance that any binding agreement will be reached at the above mentioned terms, or at all, or that a public tender offer will be launched."