Rapala VMC, the Finnish fishing tackle maker, surged more than 20% shortly after reporting stronger first-quarter profitability and maintaining its outlook, sharply outperforming a weaker Helsinki market where the OMX Helsinki 25 index fell 0.35% in the afternoon. Marimekko also gained nearly 7%, while Qt Group rose modestly and Relais Group traded lower despite beating analyst expectations. Citycon is scheduled to publish its first-quarter report after the market close.

Rapala said first-quarter net sales rose 6% to EUR 69.5 million, or 13% at comparable exchange rates, while comparable operating profit increased 39% to EUR 7.8 million. Operating profit rose to EUR 7.7 million from EUR 6 million a year earlier.

CEO Cyrille Viellard said demand was supported by new product launches including the CrushCity Mooch Minnow and Claptail lures, as well as strong fill rates for seasonal retailer orders.

“A positive start to 2026 with 13% sales growth at comparable exchange rates, supported by exciting new product introductions and efficient supply chain execution,” Viellard said.

The company maintained guidance for full-year comparable operating profit to improve from 2025 despite continued geopolitical uncertainty and inflationary pressure on raw materials.

Marimekko, the Finnish lifestyle and textile design company, reported a 5% increase in first-quarter net sales to EUR 41.4 million, while comparable operating profit rose 19% to EUR 5.3 million. The company said growth was driven particularly by wholesale sales in Scandinavia and Finland, while international sales climbed 9%.