Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and competitive pressure from imports, leading European stainless steel producers Acerinox and Outokumpu delivered solid performance in the first quarter of 2025, reporting growth in both output and earnings.

Acerinox Posts Strong Q1 Results, Eyes Further Gains

Acerinox ramped up stainless steel production to 512,000 tons in Q1, marking a 29% increase over the previous quarter. Revenue rose to €1.6 billion, up 17% quarter-on-quarter and 5% year-on-year. EBITDA climbed to €102 million, compared to €91 million in Q4 2024.

The company continues executing its strategic roadmap, including the integration of U.S.-based alloy producer Haynes International. Synergy expectations among Haynes, VDM, and NAS have been revised upward to $75 million. Despite ongoing economic and trade uncertainties, Acerinox anticipates higher EBITDA in Q2.

“In a market hampered by unpredictable tariffs and macroeconomic headwinds, we remain focused on the levers we can control,” said CEO Bernardo Velasquez.

Outokumpu Grows Shipments and EBITDA, Despite Finnish Strike Impact

Outokumpu boosted stainless steel shipments to 470,000 tons in Q1, an 11% increase quarter-on-quarter. Adjusted EBITDA rose to €49 million, up from €38 million in Q4, driven by cost-cutting measures, robust ferrochrome earnings (€43 million), and the strategic shift of production to Germany. However, a strike in Finland led to losses estimated at €15 million.

Looking ahead, the company expects Q2 shipments to rise by 10%, with EBITDA projected to remain stable or improve slightly. However, scheduled maintenance at its ferrochrome facility may reduce earnings by up to €10 million. Outokumpu also anticipates possible benefits from raw material cost fluctuations.

Focus on Raw Materials and Sustainability

Both Acerinox and Outokumpu are intensifying efforts to secure raw materials and advance decarbonization. Notably, Outokumpu has signed a 10-year agreement to procure low-carbon molybdenum.

Global Outlook

Global stainless steel production reached 62.62 million tons in 2024, a 7% increase from 2023. In Europe (including Ukraine), production rose by 1.5% year-on-year to 6.09 million tons, while the U.S. posted a 6.9% gain, reaching 1.95 million tons.