AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands – Akzo Nobel N.V. reported a second quarter with positive developments in profitability of all three business areas despite a challenging market environment.

Second quarter operating income increased 38 percent to €486 million, reflecting the positive effects of efficiency programs, lower costs, reduced restructuring expenses, divestment results and favorable currency rates. Revenue of €3,949 million was up 6 percent compared with the same period last year due to favorable currency rates, offset by divestments and lower volumes in some areas. The divestment of Paper Chemicals was completed in line with the strategy of pruning the portfolio. The triennial review with the trustees of the ICI Pension Fund (UK) was completed in July 2015. Market trends in North America continued to be positive with Europe not improving. Conditions remained challenging in many countries, including in Russia, Brazil and China. Return on sales improved to 12.3 percent and return on investments was up at 11.7 percent. AkzoNobel remains on track to deliver its 2015 targets.