- Revenue up 6 percent to €3.97 billion, mainly driven by pricing actions
- EBITDA 3 percent lower at €423 million (2011: €437 million), as weaker end markets and cost inflation impacted results
- Net income from continuing operations €70 million (2011: €132 million), due to higher incidental charges
- Cash from operating activities was impacted by a one-time pension payment and seasonal build-up of operating working capital
- Adjusted EPS €0.63 (2011: €0.72)
- Performance improvement program on track
- Economic environment and certain raw materials remain principal sensitivities in 2012
Overall raw material prices remain a challenge. Looking forward, the company expects the higher oil and TiO2 prices on average to have an inflationary impact.
Cash from operating activities was impacted by a one-time pension payment and the seasonal build-up of operating working capital.
Decorative Paints achieved a revenue increase of 4 percent in the first quarter, primarily driven by margin management in weak markets. Lower volumes impacted EBITDA, particularly in North America which 
benefited last year from a one-time positive customer load-in. Restructuring and cost reduction actions are underway in Europe and North America to offset weaker demand.
In Performance Coatings, revenue increased 11 percent and EBITDA was up 15 percent compared with the previous year. Industrial Coatings – boosted by acquisition activity – achieved the strongest growth, followed by Marine and Protective Coatings. Although overall activity levels were flat, there was significant variability between individual segments.
Specialty Chemicals revenue was up 4 percent, mainly due to the Boxing Oleochemicals acquisition and a positive price/mix effect. EBITDA was 2 percent lower, reflecting different trading conditions in certain businesses.
CEO Hans Wijers
"We are continuing to focus on performance improvement. Our global margin management efforts are also proving successful as we continue to mitigate the adverse effects of higher raw material costs. However, our volumes were down slightly, reflecting the volatile nature of the economic conditions. Despite these challenges, we have solid fundamentals, renowned brands and a strong geographic spread. Furthermore, the ongoing performance improvement program shows that we are taking the right steps towards achieving our medium-term ambitions." 
The 2012 Q1 report can be downloaded via the AkzoNobel Report iPad app or via the Quarterly Results page.