USA – Sealed Air has announced net sales of US$1.35 billion for Q3 2024, reflecting a 3% decrease.
While the Asia-Pacific region saw a 4% increase, the Americas and EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) both faced declines of 4%. Adjusted for currency, net sales decreased by US$32 million, or 2%.
Adjusted EBITDA for Q3 2024 reached US$276 million, representing 20.5% of net sales, slightly down from US$285 million (20.6%) in Q3 2023.
This dip is primarily attributed to reduced volumes and lower net price realization in the Protective segment, partly balanced by cost savings from the CTO2Grow Program.
Operational cash flow rose sharply to US$484 million, up from US$193 million a year earlier, benefiting from improved efficiency and financial management.
Capital expenditures fell to US$161 million from US$185 million in the previous year, while dividend payments remained steady at US$89 million.
CEO Patrick Kivits highlighted Sealed Air’s recent strategic shifts, “With the reorganization into Food and Protective verticals and the appointment of new leadership, we’re preparing Sealed Air for long-term growth.
“Our focus remains on optimizing each vertical and refining our growth strategy while enhancing profitability through cost reduction initiatives.”
Ahlstrom’s net sales reach US$2.42B for Q1-Q3 2024
Ahlstrom, a fiber-based specialty materials provider, reported net sales of €2.25 billion (US$2.42 billion) for the first nine months of 2024, a slight decrease from €2.28 billion (US$2.44bn) the prior year.
Despite stable volumes, average selling prices were lower, affecting revenues. Comparable EBITDA rose to €342.7 million (15.2% of net sales), up from €308 million (13.5%)—driven by improved variable margins and cost efficiency despite minor increases in fixed costs.
EBITDA, however, decreased to €258.9 million from €263.9 million, with €83.8 million in restructuring costs linked to the closure of the Bousbecque plant and losses from energy hedges.
Operating profit declined to €111.2 million from €125.9 million, with depreciation, amortization, and impairment expenses reaching €147.7 million, which includes €46.9 million tied to power purchase agreements.
CEO Helen Mets praised Ahlstrom’s progress, “Our transformation efforts are yielding results, with comparable EBITDA reaching record levels in Q3.
“Guided by scientific innovation, we’re committed to helping our customers adapt to global trends. This quarter, we launched recyclable packaging materials for the bouillon cube segment, underscoring our dedication to sustainable solutions.”
Net cash from operating activities rose to €197.5 million, supported by stronger results and reduced working capital.
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