AHLSTROM: INTERIM REPORT 1.1. - 30.9.2002
AHLSTROM'S PROFITABILITY IMPROVING DESPITE WEAK MARKETS
Ahlstrom, a leader in high performance fiber-based materials, reports nine-month profitability markedly higher than last year. Operating income increased to EUR 70.6 million (EUR 30.4 million) in January-September 2002, while comparable net sales were approximately at the same level as one year earlier. Reported net sales for January-September were EUR 1 372.7 million (EUR 1 612.1) million with the decline mainly attributable to divested non-core businesses. Income before extraordinary items and taxes was EUR 49.1 million (EUR 6.1 million). Earnings per share were EUR 0.89 (EUR -0.14).
THE THIRD QUARTER IN BRIEF
- Operating income of EUR 19.6 million significantly up from the corresponding period in 2001 (EUR 12.8 million)
- As a result of strong cash flow net interest-bearing debt was reduced to EUR 439 million (at the end of June 2002 EUR 476 million)
- Ahlstrom will expand its nonwoven and filtration business in South Korea
- The markets for the rest of the year remain challenging
The full Interim Report including tables is available to download from the enclosed link.