The sale of Ahlstrom's shareholding in core and coreboard manufacturer Sonoco-Alcore completed

Ahlstrom Corporation PRESS RELEASE 18.10.2006 at 12.00

 

Ahlstrom, a global leader in high performance fiber-based materials, today announced the closing of the sale of its 35.5% shareholding in the Sonoco-Alcore joint venture to Sonoco after receiving clearance from certain local competition authorities. The transaction value was EUR 39.5 million. As announced on July 24, 2006, Ahlstrom will book a capital gain of approximately EUR 3 million from the sale in its third quarter result.

 

The transaction supports Ahlstrom's strategy to focus on fiber-based materials and to divest non-core assets.

 

Jukka Moisio, President and CEO, Ahlstrom Corporation, tel. + 358 10 888 4700

 

 

Distribution:

Helsinki Stock Exchange

Main media

www.ahlstrom.com

 

 

Ahlstrom is a global leader in the development, manufacture and marketing of high performance fiber-based materials. Nonwovens and specialty papers, made by Ahlstrom, are used in a large variety of everyday products, e.g. in filters, wipes, flooring, labels, and tapes. The company has a strong market position in several business areas in which it operates, built upon the company's unique fiber expertise and innovative approach. Ahlstrom's 5,600 employees serve customers via sales offices and production facilities in more than 20 countries on six continents. In 2005, Ahlstrom's net sales amounted to EUR 1.55 billion. Ahlstrom's share is listed on the main list of the Helsinki Stock Exchange. The company website is www.ahlstrom.com.