In January–March 2018, Suominen’s net sales decreased by 6% from the comparison period to EUR 106.6 million ($130 million). Sales volumes increased, but the weakening of USD compared to EUR and the pressure on sales prices affected net sales. The weakening of the USD compared to EUR decreased the net sales by EUR 9 million ($11 million). 

Suominen has two business areas, Convenience and Care. The Convenience business area supplies nonwovens as roll goods for a wide range of wiping applications. The Care business area manufactures nonwovens for hygiene products and medical applications. Net sales of the Convenience business area were EUR 97.5 million ($119 million) and net sales of the Care business area EUR 9.2 million ($11.2 million).

The main application areas for nonwoven materials supplied by Suominen in January–March were baby wipes (accounting for 39% of the sales), personal care wipes (23%), home care wipes (20%), hygiene and medical products (9%), and wipes for workplace use (9%). The proportions of nonwovens for baby wipes, home care wipes as well as medical and hygiene products decreased from the comparison period, while the share of nonwovens for personal care grew.

“Consumer confidence remained strong in the beginning of 2018 both in the United States as well as in the euro zone. North America and Europe are Suominen’s main market areas,” says Nina Kopola, president & CEO. “Consumers’ optimism in the first quarter was also reflected in the demand of nonwoven products. Our volumes sold increased to a level that represents one of the highest in Suominen’s history. However, despite of achieving volume growth for the fifth consecutive quarter, Suominen’s financial development in the first quarter was a disappointment.”