BillerudKorsnäs has published its January–June 2016 interim report. Although net sales for the quarter amounted to SEK 5 439 million which was SEK 50 million lower compared to the same period last year, for comparable units net sales increased with SEK 105 million or approximately 2%.
Sales volumes increased with 4% compared to the same period last year.
Costs for planned maintenance shutdowns in the production units in Gruvön and Skärblacka amounted to SEK 244 million, compared to estimated SEK 220 million.
Demand and order situation for the third quarter is expected to be stable with normal seasonal variances for all business areas, according to Billerudkorsnäs.
Average prices in local currency in the third quarter are in general anticipated to be stable with exceptions for some segments.
No changes to wood prices are anticipated for the third quarter.
Gävle and Karlsborg production units will have planned maintenance shutdowns during the third quarter.
BillerudKorsnäs’ CEO Per Lindberg comments:
”After a couple of troublesome quarters we are now back on track with production running according to plans. The second quarter performance is in line with our own expectations. During the quarter it was decided to proceed with the investment in Skärblacka. The investment will enable further growth in attractive market segments and at the same time streamline the company’s production structure. The investment program will develop the Skärblacka production unit in Sweden into a world leading center for machine glazed, MG, kraft paper production, hence creating a competitive future platform for Packaging Paper to enable the selective growth strategy”.
