Raute Corporation posted net sales of Euro 95.7 million for January–June 2025, down 6% from the previous year, as customers postponed major investments amid prolonged recession in the construction industry, tariff uncertainties in the Americas, and heightened geopolitical tensions in the Asia–Pacific region. Order intake fell 51% to Euro 27 million, mostly from the Services business, which remained relatively resilient in the weaker market. Despite the lower volumes, comparable EBITDA rose 65% to Euro 13.9 million on efficiency gains and strong project execution, according to Raute Corporation.
CEO Mika Saariaho said market conditions in H1 reflected “heightened global trade and tariff uncertainties” that paralyzed customer investment decisions, particularly in North and South America and among Asian manufacturers reliant on U.S. exports. European customers showed early signs of preparing for a market upturn, supported by a slight recovery in construction activity and stable demand for birch plywood and LVL.
Raute responded to weak Chinese demand by closing its Changzhou production unit, part of a broader restructuring to cluster manufacturing resources for greater cost efficiency. This move is expected to cut annual fixed costs by about Euro 2 million.
Looking ahead, the company forecasts 2025 net sales between Euro 190–220 million and comparable EBITDA of Euro 20–27 million. Saariaho expects demand to improve in the second half of 2025 and into 2026, supported by reactivated commercial discussions in the Wood Processing and Analyzers segments and ongoing efficiency improvements.
