Based on preliminary information, Metsäliitto Group's sales in 2009 were approximately EUR 1,200 million (July-September 2009: EUR 1 155 million). The estimated operating result excluding non-recurring items amounted to EUR 35 million (July-September 2009: EUR 9 million).
In connection with the announcement of its third quarter results of 2009 on 22 October 2009, Metsäliitto expected that for seasonal reasons, the operating result excluding non-recurring items for the final quarter of the year to fall below third quarter levels. The improvement of the estimated operating result was affected by the pulp price developing more favourably than forecasted, improved mill utilisation rates, and the internal profit improvement measures.
Annual sales in 2009 were approximately EUR 4,850 million (January-December 2008: EUR 6,434 million). The estimated operating result excluding non-recurring items amounted to EUR -84 million (45).
For the final quarter of 2009, Metsäliitto Group will book an estimated total of EUR -27 million of non-recurring items affecting the operating result.
