Stora Enso’s result fell short of expectations

Forestry company Stora Enson adjusted operating profit in April–June was 160 million euros, while at the same time last year it was 126 million euros. The company’s adjusted operating profit margin was 6.6 percent.

The result was below the forecast of 14 analysts compiled by Vara Research. Analysts expected an adjusted operating profit of 174 million euros from the company.

The turnover for the review period was 2423 million euros. In April–June last year, the turnover was 2426 million euros.

The turnover exceeded the analyst forecast. Vara Research’s forecast for turnover was 2412 million euros.

Earnings per share were -0.03 euros, while a year earlier it was 0.03 euros. The result was below the analyst forecast, where the result per share was expected to be EUR 0.14.

Stora Enso’s reported operating profit in April–June was EUR 16.0 million. At the same time last year, the operating result was EUR 64.0 million.

The company expects market conditions to remain uncertain in the third quarter. The impact of the planned maintenance shutdowns is estimated to increase by approximately EUR 40.0–50.0 million compared to the second quarter, states the company’s press release.

“The second quarter was again a period of purposeful activity in an unstable market environment. We improved our operational performance, strengthened our customer relationships and promoted several important strategic projects”, the company’s CEO Hans Sohlström states in the announcement.

“Demand continued to be subdued in many markets, and geopolitical tensions added to uncertainty during the quarter. The Iran conflict had implications for rising energy, logistics and other input costs.”

Sohlström also commented on the ramp-up of Oulu’s new consumer cardboard line, which he says has progressed during the review period. Although the ramp-up still affects short-term profitability, the overall development has been positive and the company expects the situation to improve in the future.

The line is expected to reach its full capacity during 2027.

Stora Enso continues to separate Swedish forest assets into a new listed company. The exit is expected to take place during the first half of 2027.

The company also says it will strengthen its special pulp production with an investment of 19.0 million euros at the Skutskär mill in Sweden. At the same time, the mill’s softwood pulp production will be closed permanently during the third quarter.

The news is based on the company’s stock exchange release and analyst forecast, if one has been available. The news has been prepared by artificial intelligence and checked by the editor before publication.