Ahlstrom's sales volume development during the remainder of the year is expected to be weaker than the company had earlier estimated due to lower than expected demand in key markets. Demand has been reduced due to the continued slowdown especially in the economies in Europe. In addition, recovery in China has been delayed.
Ahlstrom anticipates that its net sales and operating profit excluding non-recurring items for 2012 will be lower than the company had previously estimated.
The company now expects its net sales from continuing operations to be between EUR 1,550-1,630 million and operating profit excluding non-recurring items from continuing operations to be EUR 48-58 million. Ahlstrom had previously forecast its 2012 net sales to be EUR 1,575-1,735 million and operating profit excluding non-recurring items to be EUR 60-80 million for 2012.
Ahlstrom will publish its January-September 2012 interim report on October 22, 2012.