Klabin posted 47 per cent growth in adjusted EBITDA in 2018

Simon Matthis 
Klabin reported Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization) of R$1,133 million in the 4Q 2018, which represents growth of 33% over the same period the previous year. In 2018, Adjusted EBITDA came to R$ 4,024 million, an increase of 47% from 2017.Net revenue increased 21% in 4Q 2018 compared to the same period in 2017, reaching R$ 2,785 million.

“Klabin ended 2018 with financial results that are both sustainable and within the planned growth margins. Our flexibility in pursuing and adapting ourselves to more profitable markets, combined with the continuously strong performance by the Puma Unit, were some of the key driving factors during the period,” says Gustavo Sousa, Chief Financial and Investor Relations Officer of Klabin.

Total sales (excluding wood) in 4Q 2018 stood at 861 thousand tons. Pulp sales by the Puma Unit, which has been operating at above its nominal capacity, reached 399 thousand tons, up 10% from 4Q 2017, and included 299 thousand tons of hardwood pulp and 100 thousand tons of softwood and fluff pulp.

Another highlight is the company’s solid performance in the paper and packaging segment, marked by the 8% growth in kraftliner sales in the 4Q 2018, driven strongly by domestic sales, which grew 25% in comparison with the 4Q 2017. During the period, Klabin expanded its footprint and share in markets such as fruits in northeastern Brazil and in industrial bag exports.

PULPAPERnews - SUECIA - 12 marzo 2019