Södra has said increased demand and higher prices for finished goods have helped it boost its profitability.
Earnings to date this year from January-August improved to SEK 1,012 million (loss: 786).
Net revenue for the first eight months of the year increased to SEK 11,429 million (11,137) while operating profit for the first eight months of the year amounted to SEK 1,012 million (loss: 786).
President and chief executive Lars Idermark said: “Demand and orders for Södra’s products improved during the second four-month period and the group reported a positive performance and improved profitability.
“All of the Södra Group’s business areas continued to improve their earnings. The improvement is mainly the result of a more favourable market in addition to the group’s own productivity enhancing measures and continued efficiency gains.”
He added that wide-spread uncertainty remains regarding the geopolitical situation in the Ukraine and the Middle East.
“The aftermath of the European financial crisis in Europe can still be seen. With these reservations, the overall assessment is, however, that the global economy will improve, which is positive for Södra since its operations are heavily dependent on export.
“The strengthening of the USD against the SEK will also boost profitability.”
