Stora Enso Half-Year Report 2026 Details Portfolio Adjustments and Profit Growth
Stora Enso reported its 2026 half-year results, showing stable sales but a significant increase in adjusted operating profit. The company is continuing strategic portfolio optimizations.
Helsinki – Stora Enso has released its financial report for the first half of 2026. In the second quarter, the company's sales stood at EUR 2,423 million, remaining stable year-on-year. However, adjusted operating profit saw a substantial increase of 27%, reaching EUR 160 million. This improvement was driven by structural changes and the ramp-up of a new consumer board line at the Oulu site in Finland.
The company is advancing its strategic restructuring plans. Preparations are underway for the planned separation of its Swedish forest assets into a new, publicly-listed company, expected by the first half of 2027. Stora Enso is also continuing its review of its Central European sawmills and building solutions operations. In a move to optimize its asset base, the company divested its corrugated board production units in Germany.
The consumer board line at the Oulu mill is progressing, with production volumes gradually increasing and expected to reach full capacity in 2027. Stora Enso is also investing EUR 19 million to boost fluff pulp production at its Skutskär site in Sweden, responding to growing demand for hygiene products. The company has also published its Circularity Plan, aiming for 90% material circularity in its direct operations by 2030.
Looking ahead, Stora Enso anticipates uncertain market conditions for the third quarter of 2026 due to geopolitical tensions and trade volatility. Planned maintenance shutdowns are expected to increase costs. Despite these challenges, the company remains focused on managing controllable factors and adapting to market developments.