similarly
Step 1: Understand sentence meaning
The first part shows a negative event (profits dropped), the second part is a positive plan (expansion).
Step 2: Analyze connectors
- consequently: implies result, usually negative after a negative, so incorrect.
- meanwhile: implies simultaneous action, unrelated here.
- nevertheless: means despite that, fits the contrast.
- similarly: implies similarity, incorrect here.
Conclusion:
"Nevertheless" correctly shows contrast.