RECORD FIRST QUARTER - ANNOUNCING SIGNIFICANT STRATEGIC ACQUISITION
HIGHLIGHTS
- Record strong first quarter comparable EBITDA, driven by disciplined execution of the transformation levers, including pricing, procurement, operational excellence, and an improved product mix.
- Operating cash flow remained solid, supported by improved profitability including lower items affecting comparability (IAC). Capital expenditures at sustainably lower level.
- Customer activity increased, with higher deliveries compared to the fourth quarter, with most businesses on par with the solid levels achieved in the first quarter of 2024.
- Strategic strengthening of the company through the planned acquisition of Stevens Point operation, a US based, high-end solutions provider in food, consumer packaging and e-commerce applications. Transaction closing expected during Q2 2025.
- Formation of the Performance Materials cluster to sharpen resource allocation, accelerate performance and increase focus on specialty materials.
Helen Mets, President and CEO, comments on the first quarter 2025:
In a volatile and uncertain market, we have achieved a record-high comparable EBITDA for the first quarter of 2025. This is driven by the ongoing disciplined execution of our strategy. We once again reached a new high for margin on variable cost per ton, thanks to our focus on pricing, variable cost efficiency, operational excellence, and an improved product mix. Additionally, our operating cash flow remained solid. Customer activity increased, and most businesses matched the solid levels achieved in the first quarter of 2024. I am particularly proud that our customer net loyalty score, already in the highest decile in our industry, improved in each of our businesses. This reflects the strength of the partnerships we have with our customers.
DISCIPLINED EXECUTION OF STRATEGY
We took significant steps to strengthen our business portfolio for the future. We recently announced the execution of a binding agreement to acquire Stevens Point, a high-end solutions provider in food, consumer packaging, and e-commerce applications. The acquisition brings Ahlstrom world-class assets, premium products, long-standing customer relationships, and an experienced team. These unique and complementary capabilities further enhance Ahlstrom’s ability to serve its customers in the Food and Consumer Packaging segments.
We also created a dedicated Performance Materials cluster that brings together the Release Liners, Precision Coating, Beverage and Casing, and Abrasives business units. This reorganization enables accelerated operational excellence and sharper resource allocation. Our existing divisions—Food and Consumer Packaging, Filtration and Life Sciences, and Protective Materials—will benefit from a greater focus on growth in specialty materials and are all high-margin businesses.
These strategic steps, combined with our active portfolio management over the past years, have repositioned Ahlstrom as the preferred sustainable specialty materials company.
GLOBAL FOOTPRINT AND LOCAL PRESENCE
Underpinning our strong performance is our global footprint, with local-for-local manufacturing and supply. Ahlstrom’s worldwide network of 35 production facilities provides flexibility and delivery reliability for our customers, whether they are based in North America, South America, Asia, or Europe. This competitive capability is particularly valuable in today’s market conditions and limits the direct impact of trade conflicts.
LOOKING AHEAD
I am proud of what we have achieved so far in 2025. Furthermore, I am confident that Ahlstrom is well-positioned to continue its growth journey and support the sustainability transition of the industries we serve. I want to thank our employees, customers and partners for their ongoing support and collaboration as we continue to work together to create a more sustainable world.
Link to full report (pdf)
