Ahlstrom Reports Strong Q2 2026 Results as Packaging and Specialty Materials Businesses Drive Growth

Ahlstrom reported stronger financial performance for the second quarter of 2026, supported by higher sales, improved profitability and continued execution of strategic improvement initiatives. The company's Food & Consumer Packaging business emerged as one of the strongest-performing segments, reflecting growing demand for sustainable packaging materials and innovation-led growth.

Net sales increased 6% year-on-year to EUR 786.3 million, while comparable EBITDA rose 16% to EUR 142.1 million, representing an EBITDA margin of 18.1%. The company also achieved a record margin on variable costs of EUR 1,145 per ton, supported by portfolio mix improvements, pricing, procurement and operational excellence. Operating cash flow improved to EUR 53 million during the quarter.

The Food & Consumer Packaging segment recorded net sales of EUR 241.7 million, up from EUR 189.6 million in the corresponding period of 2025. Comparable EBITDA for the business increased to EUR 46.9 million, with the EBITDA margin improving to 19.4% from 17.6% a year earlier.

According to Ahlstrom, demand for sustainable packaging solutions continued to strengthen during the quarter. The company said increasing customer interest in fossil-free alternatives, together with upcoming European Union regulations taking effect in August, contributed to higher inquiries for sustainable packaging products.

Ahlstrom also continued to advance its innovation portfolio, highlighting developments in plastic-to-paper conversion technologies for flexible food packaging alongside launches across healthcare, filtration, energy storage and labeling applications. The company said these innovations support its strategy of developing sustainable specialty materials for long-term growth.

President and CEO Helen Mets said:

"Ahlstrom delivered an outstanding performance in the second quarter of 2026, driven by sales growth and disciplined execution of strategic improvement initiatives."

During the quarter, Ahlstrom continued implementing strategic improvement measures, including manufacturing footprint optimization, while maintaining its focus on acquisitions, innovation and operational excellence. The company also strengthened its financial position by extending and upsizing its revolving credit facility and refinancing its U.S. dollar Term Loan, extending the maturity of 80% of its financial debt structure to 2030.