CEO's review
Nokian Tyres' President and CEO Paolo Pompei on July 17, 2026:
“In April–June 2026, we delivered a strong quarter in line with our strategic ambition. Operating profit increased by 136%, driven by higher sales volumes and enhanced pricing. This reflects our continuous effort to improve our premium positioning and the trust consumers place in our brand. At the same time, we further improved efficiency through multiple initiatives across the organization, supporting profitability and long-term value creation. I am proud of the Nokian Tyres team for executing our strategy with discipline and delivering consistent progress quarter after quarter.
Passenger Car Tyres was the main driver of our improved performance, with both sales and profitability increasing during the quarter. Heavy Tyres returned to sales growth, while maintaining good profitability despite challenging market conditions. Vianor’s profitability was affected by cost inflation and the early start of the spring season.
During the quarter, Nokian Tyres was once again recognized by the Financial Times as one of Europe’s Climate Leaders, achieving the highest score among tire companies on the list. In addition, TIME magazine named Nokian Tyres one of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies 2026. These recognitions acknowledge our long-term commitment to sustainability and inspire us to continue improving our performance in this area.
Operating profit increased by 136%, driven by higher sales volumes and enhanced pricing.
A strong brand and a competitive product portfolio remain key enablers of our premium positioning. We continued to invest in brand building and gained broad visibility as an official sponsor of the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship. Products launched in recent quarters supported sales and further strengthened our premium offering. Winter tires remained our largest product segment by sales value, while all-season tires continued to grow. Initial customer response to our new flagship winter tire, Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta 01, has been positive and reinforces our position in a segment that is central to our heritage and business.
While investing in growth, we have continued to improve cost efficiency and maintain disciplined capital allocation. Following the successful completion of our major investment phase, capital expenditure will be somewhat lower this year than in the previous year.
Geopolitical tensions and market uncertainty are likely to persist, but our priorities remain clear. We continue to focus on executing our strategy, strengthening our premium positioning, and improving profitability. While there is still work ahead, we are on the right path to deliver profitable growth and create long-term value for all our stakeholders.”