Valmet Reports Robust Growth with Increased Orders and Earnings for 2026 Quarter

Valmet's Rising Trajectory: Interim Review Highlights

Valmet Oyj has released an impressive interim review for the period from January 1 to September 30, 2026, demonstrating remarkable growth in orders and earnings. The report, disclosed on October 28, 2026, highlights a vigorous 30% increase in orders received during the third quarter, soaring to EUR 1,408 million compared to the EUR 1,083 million recorded in the same quarter last year. This growth reflects a 25% increase in organically received orders, driven primarily by strong demand in biomaterial services and substantial growth in Process Performance Solutions.

The positive quarterly performance is attributed to several key factors. First, Valmet's biomaterial capital projects achieved a strong return with major wins in China and the Asia-Pacific region, which reflects customers' confidence in Valmet's technology and long-term viability as a partner. Additionally, the company’s net sales for the quarter rose by 5%, reaching EUR 1,360 million, up from EUR 1,295 million the previous year. The growth in both sales and orders is a testament to the ongoing demand for Valmet's innovative solutions.

Furthermore, the company's comparable EBITA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, and Amortization) saw an increase of 6%, rising from EUR 159 million to EUR 169 million. This growth was bolstered by the integration of Severn Group into Valmet and the implementation of efficiency and cost-cutting measures as part of the Lead the Way strategy. The comparable EBITA margin remained stable at 12.4%, only slightly up from 12.3% in the prior year.

Despite the positive growth signals, Valmet’s earnings per share (EPS) showed a decrease, landing at EUR 0.38, down from EUR 0.46 in the previous year. This decline was attributed to lower operating profits and increased financing costs. The adjusted EPS also showed a similar trend, falling to EUR 0.48 from EUR 0.54.

When considering the year-to-date performance from January to September 2026, Valmet reported orders received amounting to EUR 3,874 million, nearly matching the EUR 3,936 million from the previous year. Yet, net sales did see a commendable increase, reflecting strong underlying market trends. Net sales reached EUR 3,920 million, growing by 5% against last year’s EUR 3,720 million.

One notable aspect of Valmet’s report is the ongoing strategic review aimed at evaluating the potential separation of its two core business units: Biomaterial Solutions and Services, and Process Performance Solutions. The review seeks to assess whether separating into independently listed companies would yield greater shareholder value. Although no final decision has been made, preparations for operational independence are underway, with expected costs of around EUR 10 million in Q4 2026 not impacting comparable EBITA.

Valmet's leadership remains optimistic about the future, maintaining guidance for 2026, which forecasts stable growth in both net sales and EBITA compared to the previous year's figures. During the forthcoming market outlook period from October 2026 to March 2027, Valmet anticipates marginal growth for Process Performance Solutions while expecting stability in its Biomaterial Solutions and Services segment.

In summary, Valmet’s impressive interim review not only highlights the company’s strong performance amidst challenging market conditions but also sets the stage for potential operational shifts that could enhance investor confidence and shareholder value. As the company continues to broaden its service offerings and deepen customer relationships, it remains well-positioned for further long-term growth and profitability.

Conclusion

Valmet has demonstrated strong resilience with robust growth rates in orders and earnings during the third quarter of 2026, supported by strategic initiatives and a customer-centric approach. As the company prepares for possible structural changes, stakeholders should remain focused on the continuing evolution of Valmet's business strategies and market adaptations in a fast-paced global environment.