Lassila & Tikanoja plc: Interim Report 1 January–31 March 2025

Core Viewpoint - Lassila & Tikanoja plc reported a strong start to 2025, with improved adjusted operating profit despite a decrease in net sales, and is progressing with plans for a partial demerger to enhance shareholder value [3][6][49]. Financial Performance - Net sales for Q1 2025 totaled EUR 175.5 million, a decrease of 5.1% compared to EUR 185.0 million in Q1 2024 [10][8]. - Adjusted operating profit was EUR 2.7 million, significantly improved from EUR 0.0 million in the previous year, representing 1.5% of net sales [10][3]. - Operating profit improved to EUR 3.7 million from a loss of EUR 1.7 million in the previous year, with an operating margin of 2.1% [10][8]. - Net cash flow from operating activities after investments was EUR 6.6 million, an improvement of EUR 16 million from the comparison period [3][18]. Business Segments Circular Economy Business - Net sales for the Circular Economy Business were EUR 89.5 million, down from EUR 93.0 million, with adjusted operating profit slightly decreasing to EUR 2.5 million [11][13]. - Demand for recycling and waste management services in the construction industry decreased, but demand in hazardous waste remained stable [4][13]. Facility Services Facility Services Finland - Net sales decreased to EUR 58.3 million from EUR 63.3 million, but operating profit improved to EUR 2.1 million from a loss of EUR 0.1 million [14][15]. - Strong demand for digital services contributed to profitability improvements despite the decrease in net sales [5][15]. Facility Services Sweden - Net sales were EUR 28.3 million, down from EUR 29.5 million, with operating loss reduced to EUR -1.5 million from EUR -2.1 million [16][17]. - New customer contracts and ongoing efficiency measures are expected to support a turnaround in 2025 [5][17]. Strategic Developments - The company is planning a partial demerger to separate its circular economy and facility services businesses into two independent listed companies, which is expected to enhance shareholder value [6][49]. - An efficiency program was launched aiming for an annual performance improvement of at least EUR 8 million by the end of 2026 [52][48]. Sustainability and Personnel - The company reported a favorable development in its carbon footprint, attributed to increased use of renewable fuels and a mild winter [26][27]. - The average number of employees converted into full-time equivalents was 5,857, a decrease from 6,305 in the previous year [28][30]. Shareholder Information - The Annual General Meeting resolved to pay a dividend of EUR 0.50 per share, totaling EUR 19.1 million, on 7 April 2025 [24][42]. - The market capitalization at the end of the review period was EUR 319.7 million, down from EUR 335.9 million [32].