Resilient Underlying EBITDA
Underlying EBITDA of approximately EUR 1.0 billion for FY2025, only marginally down from EUR 1,049 million in the prior year (≈4.7% decline), described by management as a resilient outcome in a prolonged cyclical downturn.
Strong Cash Generation
Cash generated from operations of EUR 1.072 billion (FY2025) and cash delivered of EUR 767 million for the year, supported by strong working capital management and operational focus.
Disciplined Capital Expenditure
FY2025 cash investment in property, plant and equipment of EUR 673 million, below earlier guidance (EUR 750–850 million). FY2026 cash CapEx guidance reduced to approximately EUR 550 million (previously guided ~EUR 650 million), with a base maintenance level around EUR 500 million.
Volume Growth in Key Segments
Containerboard volumes up around 15% year‑on‑year driven by export sales and ramp-up of expansion projects (Swiecie, Kuopio, Duino). Corrugated Solutions like‑for‑like volumes up ~2% (ex‑Schumacher). Paper bags (global) volumes grew ~5%.
Schumacher Acquisition and Synergies
Schumacher integration on track; expected cost synergies increased to EUR 32 million over three years (up from EUR 22 million originally), and the acquisition extends geographic reach and footprint optimization potential.
Operational Excellence and Productivity Gains
Multiyear operational excellence program initiated; converting operations delivered productivity improvements of ~4–5% in the last 12 months. Examples of efficiency and downtime reduction cited at flagship sites (e.g., Swiecie).
Cost discipline and structural actions
Group actions to reduce fixed costs included headcount reductions (~1,000 people over the prior 12 months) and a c.13% reduction in group services offices; three further plant closures announced (additional ~200 headcount) to improve cost structure and efficiencies.
Robust Liquidity and Balance Sheet Features
Available liquidity of around EUR 1.3 billion, no debt maturities until 2028, and maintained investment‑grade credit ratings. Board recommended ordinary dividend of EUR 0.2825 per share, returning to stated dividend cover policy (2–3x underlying earnings).