Norske Skog faces challenging markets
Norske Skog continues to reduce debt and fixed costs despite challenging markets. Net loss was significantly influenced by non-cash items such as impairments and change in value of energy contracts.
Norske Skog had gross operating earnings (EBITDA) in the fourth quarter of 2012 of NOK 327 million, down from NOK 365 million in the third quarter. This decline was due to weak seasonal effects and NOK appreciation. Gross operating earnings for the full year 2012 were NOK 1 464 million, a reduction of NOK 51 million from 2011, mainly due to lower production capacity after the closure of Norske Skog Follum, sale of Norske Skog Bio Bio and Norske Skog Parenco.