Ahlstrom revises its dividend policy

Ahlstrom Corporation STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE 15.12.2009 at 14.50
 
 
The Board of Directors of Ahlstrom Corporation has today decided to revise Ahlstrom's
dividend policy to be based on the company's cash generating capabilities. The policy will be applied as from the dividend paid for the financial year of 2009.
 
According to the new policy, Ahlstrom will aim to pay a dividend of not less than one third of the net cash from operating activities after operative investments (such as maintenance, cost improvement and efficiency improvement investments), calculated as a three-year rolling average. The three-year rolling average shall be used to achieve stability in the dividend payout.
 
The remaining cash flow shall be used mainly for reducing the net debt and for supporting the growth of the company.
 
Ahlstrom's previous dividend policy has been to pay a dividend averaging at least 50% of the profit for the period of the previous financial year.
 
 
Ahlstrom Corporation
Board of Directors
 
 
Further information:
 
Seppo Parvi
CFO
Tel. +358 10 888 4768
 
 
Distribution:
NASDAQ OMX Helsinki
Main media
 
 
Ahlstrom in brief
 
Ahlstrom is a global leader in the development, manufacture and marketing of high performance nonwovens and specialty papers. Ahlstrom´s products are used in a large variety of everyday applications, such as filters, wipes, flooring, labels, and tapes. Based upon its unique fiber expertise and innovative approach, the company has a strong market position in several business areas in which it operates. Ahlstrom's 6,000 employees serve customers via sales offices and production facilities in more than 20 countries on six continents. In 2008, Ahlstrom's net sales amounted to EUR 1.8 billion. Ahlstrom's share is quoted on the NASDAQ OMX Helsinki. The company website is at www.ahlstrom.com.