![graphic packaging graphic packaging](https://teamtrg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Box-Sample-1-e1496958271220.png)
Net sales for the quarter were a record $2.2 billion, up 36% year over year, driven by a 3% net organic sales growth, successful execution of pricing initiatives, and contributions from acquisitions. Adjusted earnings per share, excluding amortization of purchased intangibles, improved 78% to $0.48. Adjusted EBITDA was $350 million, an increase of 46% year over year. On Slide 3, let's briefly walk through the key highlights from the quarter. We'll spend some time on today's call discussing these positive results and operating model we've put in place to drive continued profitable growth and returns to our stakeholders. To help you follow along with today's call, we will be referencing our first quarter presentation, which can be accessed through the webcast via self-directed slides and also in the Investors section of our website at I would like to remind everyone that statements of our expectations, plans, estimates, and beliefs regarding future performance and events constitute forward-looking statements. Speaking on the call will be Mike Doss, the company's president and CEO and Steve Scherger, executive vice president and CFO.
![graphic packaging graphic packaging](https://s23.q4cdn.com/180757317/files/design/Logo.png)
Good morning, and welcome to Graphic Packaging Holding Company's conference call to discuss our first quarter 2022 results. Melanie Skijus - Vice President of Investor Relations I would now like to pass the conference over to Melanie Skijus, vice president of investor relations. My name is Daly, and I will be the moderator for today's call. Hello, and welcome to today's Graphic Packaging first quarter 2022 earnings call. Graphic Packaging Holding Company ( GPK -0.62%) Q1 2022 Earnings Call Apr 26, 2022, 10:00 a.m.