21.   While protecting its market share, the company nonetheless absorbed a body blow to profits.

22.   Demand for workers still exists as there are instances where in the industrial estates, workers who have been laid off were immediately absorbed by other companies.

23.   However, he conceded that the company could absorb the setback by integrating its operations.

24.   The company will absorb another charge in the third quarter for the additional severance packages.

25.   The new company will also absorb a venture set up by Wilsey and Harvest States last year, the daily said.