Financial information

CEO's comments on the Half-year Financial Report January–June 2026, published August 12, 2026

Strong operational performance supported profitability in a continued challenging market

In the second quarter of 2026, Raute continued to demonstrate strong operational execution in a market environment characterized by prolonged uncertainty and subdued customer investment activity. Economic uncertainty remained elevated across our key markets, and many customers continued to focus on cost savings and operational efficiency rather than new investments. As a result, order intake remained at a low level, as again certain orders were postponed into the coming quarters. Nevertheless, our ability to execute customer delivery projects efficiently supported profitability and highlighted the resilience of our business model.

Raute’s order intake for the quarter amounted to EUR 18 million, compared with EUR 12 million in the comparison period. Net sales totaled EUR 33.0 million, down from EUR 43.8 million in the second quarter of 2025. Comparable EBITDA amounted to EUR 4.0 million, corresponding to 12.0% of net sales, compared with EUR 6.5 million and 14.7% in the comparison period. Profitability was supported by good progress in customer delivery projects, tight cost control and the release of certain project provisions. However, lower business volumes continued to weigh on earnings across the Group. The order book at the end of the quarter stood at EUR 66 million.

Performance varied across our business units. In Wood Processing, profitability remained at a very good level despite lower business volumes, supported by successful project execution. In Services, customer activity remained subdued as many customers continued to seek savings in their daily operations. Consequently, sales volumes were lower than expected and profitability did not fully reflect the earnings potential of the business. In Analyzers, the quarter marked a clear profitability improvement compared with the low levels seen in previous quarters. Improved business volumes supported a recovery in profitability and demonstrated the underlying strength of the business.

During the quarter, we continued to improve our operational capabilities across the Group. Our focus remained on disciplined execution, tight cost control, efficiency improvements and maintaining strong customer delivery performance. These efforts are particularly important in the current market environment and help ensure that Raute remains well positioned when investment activity eventually recovers. The strategic priorities we have communicated earlier remain unchanged, and we continue to advance them with determination despite the challenging market conditions.

While the market environment remained difficult throughout the quarter, we have observed some signs of improving customer sentiment. However, these early indications have not yet translated into a broader recovery in order intake. The timing of a sustained improvement in customers’ investment activity therefore remains difficult to predict. In this environment, we continue to focus on operational excellence, margin management and the successful execution of our customer commitments. With a strong balance sheet and disciplined approach, Raute is well positioned to navigate the current uncertainty and capture opportunities when market conditions improve.

Mika Saariaho
President and CEO