SCA has recently released its interim report covering the period 1 January-31 March 2013. Net sales rose 15% (20% excluding exchange rate effects and divestments) to SEK 22,386m (19,490) compared with same period a year ago. Operating profit excluding items affecting comparability rose 20% (25% excluding exchange rate effects) to SEK 2,205m (1,834). Profit before tax, excluding items affecting comparability, rose 29% (34% excluding exchange rate effects) to SEK 1,941m (1,503).
SCA CEO & President Jan Johansson CEO’S comments on the report:
“The hygiene operations are showing favorable sales growth and improved earnings. The lower earnings for Forest Products are mainly attributable to negative exchange rate effects and lower prices for publication papers. The efficiency programs in the hygiene and forest products operations are continuing according to plan. Consolidated net sales for the first quarter of 2013, excluding exchange rate effects and divestments, rose 20% compared with the same period a year ago. The increase is mainly attributable to acquisitions and higher volumes.”
Operating profit excluding exchange rate effects and items affecting comparability rose 25%. The corresponding profit for Personal Care and Tissue rose 27% and 40%, respectively, while profit for Forest Products decreased by 22%. Forest Products includes positive earning effects of SEK 121m attributable to land swaps and negative exchange rate effects of approximately SEK 110m. Profit before tax, excluding exchange rate effects and items affecting comparability, rose 34%.
