Valmet Delivers Improved Profitability in 2025; Comparable EBITA Margin Rises to 11.9%

PAPER INDUSTRY NEWS

Jino John

2/6/20262 min read

Espoo, Finland –Valmet reported solid financial performance for the full year 2025, delivering the first tangible results of its “Lead the Way” strategy. The company’s comparable EBITA margin improved to 11.9%, supported by operating model renewal and disciplined cost control, despite a challenging macroeconomic environment.

For the period January–December 2025, Valmet’s net sales remained stable at EUR 5.2 billion, while comparable EBITA increased to EUR 620 million. Cash flow from operating activities strengthened to EUR 581 million, reinforcing Valmet’s solid financial position.

During the fourth quarter, Valmet achieved an all-time high quarterly comparable EBITA margin of 13.3%, driven by efficiency improvements and lower SG&A expenses. Earnings per share for 2025 amounted to EUR 1.52, with adjusted EPS of EUR 1.82.

The Board of Directors proposes a dividend of EUR 1.35 per share, equivalent to 89% of net profit, to be paid in two installments, subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting on March 25, 2026.

Strategically, Valmet strengthened its portfolio through the acquisition of Severn Group, expanding its Flow Control platform and addressable market beyond traditional biomaterials. The company also continued to secure strategically important customer projects globally, strengthening its installed base and long-term service opportunities.

Looking ahead, Valmet expects 2026 net sales to remain at the 2025 level, while comparable EBITA is expected to remain stable or improve. Targeted investments will support the next phase of growth under the “Lead the Way” strategy.

Key Extracted Disclosures & Material Updates

1. Financial Performance (FY2025)

  • Net sales: EUR 5,197 million (flat YoY)

  • Comparable EBITA: EUR 620 million (margin 11.9%, up from 11.4%)

  • Operating cash flow: EUR 581 million

  • Order backlog: EUR 4.3 billion, with ~EUR 3.1 billion expected to convert into 2026 sales

  • Net debt to EBITDA: 1.40

  • Gearing: 35%

2. Dividend

  • Proposed dividend: EUR 1.35 per share

  • Payout ratio: 89% of net result

  • Payment: Two installments

  • AGM date: March 25, 2026

3. Projects & Order Wins (Highlights)

Valmet secured several strategically important projects in 2025, including:

  • Largest-ever energy order for a biomass power plant in Berlin

  • Advanced automation and analytical solutions for Dow’s Path2Zero project

  • Waste-to-energy and boiler projects in Taiwan, Poland, Sweden

  • Largest full-scope tissue line delivery in Valmet’s history to Sofidel America

  • Automation systems for hydrogen fuel cell power facilities and next-generation research vessels

4. Capital Expenditure & Investments

  • No major capacity expansion CapEx announced

  • Targeted investments planned for 2026 to support next growth phase

  • Continued investment in operating model renewal and Global Supply unit

  • Structural savings target: EUR 100 million by 2030

5. Mergers & Acquisitions

  • Acquisition of Severn Group (Q4 2025)

    • Expands severe-service valve technologies

    • Strengthens Flow Control platform

    • Broadens addressable market beyond biomaterials