Ahlstrom revises its outlook for 2012 net sales and operating profit

Ahlstrom Corporation STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE October 16, 2012 at 10.25

Ahlstrom's sales volume development during the remainder of the year is expected to be weaker than the company had earlier estimated due to lower than expected demand in key markets. Demand has been reduced due to the continued slowdown especially in the economies in Europe. In addition, recovery in China has been delayed.

Ahlstrom anticipates that its net sales and operating profit excluding non-recurring items for 2012 will be lower than the company had previously estimated.    

The company now expects its net sales from continuing operations to be between EUR 1,550-1,630 million and operating profit excluding non-recurring items from continuing operations to be EUR 48-58 million. Ahlstrom had previously forecast its 2012 net sales to be EUR 1,575-1,735 million and operating profit excluding non-recurring items to be EUR 60-80 million for 2012.

Ahlstrom will publish its January-September 2012 interim report on October 22, 2012.

For more information, please contact:
Seppo Parvi
CFO
Tel. +358 10 888 4768

Liisa Nyyssönen
Vice President, Communications
Tel. +358 10 888 4757

Ahlstrom in brief
Ahlstrom is a high performance materials company, partnering with leading businesses around the world to help them stay ahead. Our products are used in a large variety of everyday applications, such as filters, medical gowns and drapes, wallcoverings, flooring, labels and food packaging. We have a leading market position in the businesses in which we operate. Our 5,200 employees serve customers in 28 countries on six continents. In 2011, Ahlstrom's net sales amounted to EUR 1.6 billion. The company's share is quoted on the NASDAQ OMX Helsinki. More information is available at www.ahlstrom.com.