Ahlstrom - Company Announcement

Ahlstrom's outlook for 2008 unchanged

Ahlstrom Corporation STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE 27.5.2008

Based on a Reuters interview with Ahlstrom CEO Risto Anttonen
published today, there has been speculation on the market on
Ahlstrom's outlook for 2008.

Ahlstrom stresses that its outlook for 2008 is unchanged.

Anttonen's comment on Ahlstrom's outlook for 2008 is quoted in the
article as follows: "It depends on how the market situation and raw
material prices develop, of course it is challenging, it is always a
challenge to improve results."

The full version of the comment is as follows:"It depends on how the market situation and raw material prices
develop, of course it is challenging, it is always a challenge to
improve results, but one also has to remember that we have taken
action which help in this year's results, including closing four
unprofitable plants."


Ahlstrom restates its outlook for 2008 given on 25 April 2008:

Demand in Ahlstrom's main markets is expected to continue at a good
level in 2008. However, the uncertainty related with the market
development in the USA reduces short-term visibility. Initial signs
of eventual softness of demand have emerged, for example in nonwoven
wiping fabrics.

The recent acquisitions and the ongoing investment projects in
Brazil, Russia and China are expected to increase Ahlstrom's net
sales by 10% during the first half of 2008. If the USD remains at the
current weak level, the full-year net sales growth is anticipated to
be slightly below 10%.

Prices for Ahlstrom's main raw materials, especially pulp, are
expected to increase or stay at the current high level during 2008.
High oil prices are expected to keep energy and synthetic fiber costs
high. On the other hand, the slowdown of the Chinese textile industry
is anticipated to reduce the price of rayon. For chemicals, the price
development is anticipated to be mixed.

In order to improve profitability, Ahlstrom has implemented price
increases, which are currently taking effect in all business areas.
As a result of the restructuring actions decided on during the fourth
quarter of 2007, Ahlstrom will have a more competitive cost structure
in 2008. The restructuring is targeted to gradually improve operating
profit annually by EUR 25 million, with full effect seen from the
second half of 2008 onwards.

As a result of the implemented growth actions and recent
restructuring measures, Ahlstrom is well positioned to grow and
clearly improve its operating financial performance in 2008.


Ahlstrom Corporation
Risto Anttonen, CEO


For further information, please contact:

Risto Anttonen, CEO, tel. +358 (0)50 597 8400


Distribution:
OMX Nordic Exchange Helsinki
Main media
www.ahlstrom.com

Ahlstrom in brief

Ahlstrom is a global leader in the development, manufacture and
marketing of high performance fiber-based materials. Nonwovens and
specialty papers, made by Ahlstrom, are used in a large variety of
everyday products, 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 6,500 employees serve customers via
sales offices and production facilities in more than 20 countries on
six continents. In 2007, Ahlstrom's net sales amounted to EUR 1.8
billion. Ahlstrom's share is listed on the OMX Nordic Exchange
Helsinki. The company website is www.ahlstrom.com.