SCA's net sales decreased during the first three quarters of 2010 by two percent (increased by four percent, excluding exchange rate effects) to 81,578 million Kronor (83,350). Profit before tax, excluding restructuring costs, rose nine percent to 6,218 million Kronor (5,724). Profit for the period, excluding restructuring costs, rose ten percent to 4,601 million Kronor (4,179). Restructuring costs amounted to 931 million Kronor. Earnings per share were 5.53 Kronor (5.06)."Net sales for the third quarter of 2010, excluding effects of divestments and exchange rate movements, rose eight percent, compared with the same period a year ago, as a result of higher prices and volumes," comments Jan Johansson, CEO of SCA. "Operating profit, excluding restructuring costs and currency effects, rose two percent. Price increases carried out and cost-cutting measures, combined with higher volumes, have compensated for sharply higher raw material costs."The increased operating profit for business area Packaging in the third quarter is mainly attributable to higher prices and volumes, and savings from the restructuring program.