The Mayr-Melnhof Group managed to continue the positive business development of the previous quarters also in the third quarter 2010 supported by the temporary economic recovery. Thus, it was possible to improve sales and profits in the first three quarters of 2010 in comparison to last year, both in cartonboard production as well as in the folding carton business.
MM Karton primarily focused on passing on the massive increase in fiber prices. Due to the fact that capacities were fully utilized in the third quarter, the so far incurred cost burden could be passed on to a noticeable extent and the margin recovered.
MM Packaging managed to sustain profitability at a high level particularly due to growing sales and volumes. However, increasing cartonboard prices remain a great challenge.
Although order peaks have past, the company started the fourth quarter well booked. In line with the continuing positive order situation, the company do not expect any significant price decreases on the procurement markets. In fact, the prices for chemicals and logistics are going up considerably, which is why another cartonboard price increase has been implemented since the beginning of October. However, after last months’ momentum, the Mayr-Melnhof Group expect a normalization in business development in the next few quarters.
