Mondi provides an update on trading for the three months to 30 September 2024 (“Q3 2024”). Underlying EBITDA for the quarter was, as expected, lower than the previous quarter, at €223 million (Q2 2024: €351 million). This was primarily due to more planned maintenance shuts and a forestry fair value loss, which together resulted in a difference between the third quarter and second quarter of approximately €90 million. This was in addition to softer seasonal demand and higher input costs. Selling prices in Corrugated Packaging and Flexible Packaging were higher when compared to the previous quarter due to the implementation of paper price increases earlier in the year. After a recovery in pricing at the start of the year, pulp and paper selling prices in Uncoated Fine Paper declined in the quarter. Andrew King, Chief Executive Officer, said: “While we are seeing the benefits from the increase in prices earlier this year across our key paper grades, trading conditions remain muted against the backdrop of an uncertain macroeconomic environment. In the fourth quarter there will be fewer planned maintenance shuts, and we expect the normal seasonal pick-up in demand.

Please be advised we plan to increase the price of our 30# (48.8 gsm.) standard newsprint by $30.00 per metric ton effective October 1, 2017. Prices for other newsprint basis weights will increase proportionally as per past practices.

Blackstone announced that funds managed by its Blackstone Tactical Opportunities business have acquired Sustana Group, a leading manufacturer of premium, sustainable recycled fiber, paper and packaging products, from an affiliate of H.I.G. Capital (“H.I.G.”). Headquartered in De Pere, Wisconsin, Sustana uses post-consumer materials and the high standards for environmental sustainability to produce a comprehensive suite of recycled fiber, paper and packaging solutions for customers throughout North America. It services a diversified customer base through four facilities, all of which have leading energy efficiency, water conservation systems, wastewater treatment technology and recycling of process by-products.