Based on preliminary information, Metsäliitto's sales in the fourth quarter of 2009 were approximately 1,200 million Euros (1,155 million July-September 2009). The estimated operating result, excluding non-recurring items, amounted to 35 million Euros (Nine million July-September 2009).In connection with the announcement of its third quarter results of 2009 on 22 October 2009, Metsäliitto expected that for seasonal reasons, the operating result for the final quarter of the year to fall below third quarter levels. The improvement of the estimated operating result was caused by the pulp price developing more favourably than forecasted, improved mill utilization rates, and the internal profit improvement measures.Annual sales in 2009 were approximately 4,850 million Euros (6,434 million January-December 2008). The estimated operating result excluding non-recurring items amounted to -84 million (45).For the final quarter of 2009, Metsäliitto will book an estimated total of -27 million Euros of non-recurring items affecting the operating result.