Higher volumes and improved product mix supported the company's coatings-relevant chemicals business, while a federal agreement adds another manufacturing development.
The chemical supplier reported different pricing and demand trends across polyurethane and advanced materials, while its proposed combination continues through regulatory review.
Higher selling prices lifted sales and core business earnings, but restructuring expenses, inventory costs and uneven segment performance complicated the quarter.
Higher prices and volumes lifted refinish sales in the latest quarter. Industrial coatings tell a different profitability story as input costs continue to weigh on results.
The constant-currency gain came as Azelis recorded a €350 million noncash goodwill impairment in the Americas, giving the quarter a mixed financial picture.
Organic growth lifted the coated-materials segment, although input costs pressured margins; a subsequent acquisition adds optical-coatings technology and new end-market exposure.