Huhtamaki to focus its operations



HUHTAMÄKI OYJ STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE, 2.9.2008 AT 09.00

Huhtamäki Oyj intends to focus on packaging operations where it has a
competitive advantage, good market positions and which create value
for Huhtamaki and its customers."We have good positions in smooth and rough molded fiber products,
release films, flexible packaging, foodservice paper cups and other
products based on our paper forming technology", says CEO Jukka
Moisio. "In these operations we have strong know how, technology
platforms and business concepts that allow continued competitive
advantage.""Rigid plastic consumer goods operations, for the most part, do not
meet our criteria for financial performance and its profitability has
been below Huhtamaki average. Therefore we will review different
strategic alternatives for this operation. One possible outcome is a
sale."

Huhtamaki's rigid plastic consumer goods operations, which are mainly
in Europe, will be separated into a new reporting segment as of
January 1, 2009. The segment has an annual revenue of approximately
EUR 400 million. Advisors have been chosen to assist in the strategic
review of the segment. The outcome and consequent actions will be
communicated during 2009.

Huhtamaki's main financial targets, return on investment (ROI) at 15%
and dividend payout ratio of 40%, remain unchanged. Huhtamaki will
also focus on improving cash flow. In the short term, emphasis will
be on debt reduction, and core stronghold businesses will focus on
organic development targeting approximately 5% growth year-on-year.


For further information, please contact:
Jukka Moisio, CEO, tel. +358(0)10 686 7801
Timo Salonen, CFO, tel. +358(0)10 686 7880


HUHTAMÄKI OYJ
Group Communications


Huhtamaki Group is a leading manufacturer of consumer and specialty
packaging with 2007 net sales totaling EUR 2.3 billion. Consumer
goods and foodservice markets are served by some 15,000 people in 65
manufacturing units and several sales offices in 35 countries. The
parent company, Huhtamäki Oyj, has its head office in Espoo, Finland
and is listed on the OMX Nordic Exchange Helsinki. Additional
information is available at www.huhtamaki.com.