M-real's 1Q 2010 profitability clearly better than in the previous quarter

M-real Corporation Stock Exchange Release on 8 April 2010 at 13.15
 
M-real's 1Q 2010 profitability clearly better than in the previous quarter
 
In connection with the financial statements for the year 2009 announced on 4
February 2010 M-real Corporation, part of Metsäliitto Group, estimated that
1Q 2010 operating result excluding non-recurring items will improve from
4Q 2009.
 
Due to stronger overall demand and higher than anticipated pulp price M-real's
1Q 2010 operating result, excluding non-recurring items, is expected to be
approximately EUR 35 million. This is clearly better than the EUR 7 million
achieved in 4Q 2009. Consequently, result before taxes, excluding non-recurring
items, in 1Q 2010 is expected to be clearly positive.
 
"Demand seems to continue on a good level. Availability of pulp has temporarily
weakened mainly due to the unfortunate earthquake in Chile. This may cause board
and paper production curtailments globally and further increase pulp prices.
Board and paper prices must be increased to cover the increasing fibre costs.
M-real has announced price increases for all its main products and the
implementation is proceeding", says CEO Mikko Helander.
 
M-real will announce the 1Q 2010 results on 5 May 2010.
 
M-REAL CORPORATION
 
For further information, please contact:
 
Matti Mörsky, CFO, tel. +358 10 465 4913
Juha Laine, Vice President, Investor Relations and Communications, tel. +358
10 465 4335
 
[HUG#1401392]