The company’s growth in earnings was largely driven by the successful ramp-up of the consumer board line at its Oulu site in Finland, which helped offset the dampening effects of lower market prices and currency fluctuations. While operational performance improved, the firm's bottom line faced pressure from 83 million euros in restructuring costs and fair valuation adjustments. CEO Hans Sohlström emphasized that the firm is prioritizing internal efficiency over market dependence, focusing on capital allocation and a leaner asset base.

Strategic changes remain the core of Stora Enso’s current trajectory. The company is moving forward with the separation of its Swedish forest assets, Bergslagets Skogar, into a standalone public entity by mid-2027. Simultaneously, it is doubling down on specialized pulp, earmarking 19 million euros to expand fluff pulp capacity at its Skutskär site. These moves follow the recent divestment of German corrugated board units, signaling a clear intent to shed non-core operations to improve long-term margins. Looking ahead, the firm expects higher maintenance costs in the third quarter as it continues to integrate new technology at its production facilities.