Drytac announces global availability of ReTac Clear PET

American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement regarding the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Boiler Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) proposed rule: “AF&PA is pleased the EPA has moved forward in proposing an achievable Boiler Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) rule. This is the result of more than two decades of work that gives the forest products industry regulatory certainty while encouraging the use of renewable, carbon-neutral fuel. “While limits for several boiler types have become more stringent, we believe they are feasible and affordable. Already, to date, our industry has invested $1 billion in controls to meet Boiler MACT obligations.

Comments to Results of Operations - Comparison of Three Months Ended December 31, 2017 to Three Months Ended December 31, 2016: • Net sales for the fourth quarter of 2017 decreased by $7 million compared to the fourth quarter of 2016. The sales decline was primarily attributable to a decrease in total sales volume due to the general softening of demand for coated papers and our capacity reductions at our Androscoggin Mill. • Gross margin, excluding depreciation, amortization and depletion expenses, decreased from 16.6% of net sales in the fourth quarter of 2016 to 13.3% in the fourth quarter of 2017. Comments to Results of Operations - Comparison of 12 Months Ended December 31, 2017 to 12 Months Ended December 31, 2016: • Net sales for the 12 months of 2017 decreased by $180 million compared to the 12 months of 2016. The sales decline was attributable to a decrease in total sales volume and a decrease in pricing, partially offset by improvement in product mix. The decrease in volume and pricing were driven by general softening of demand for coated papers and our capacity reductions at the Androscoggin Mill. • Gross margin, excluding depreciation, amortization and depletion expenses, decreased from 11.1% of net sales in the 12 months of 2016 to 9.1% in the 12 months of 2017. Gross margin was favorably impacted in 2016 by $22 million and in 2017 by $4 million as a result of gains included in cost of products sold, associated with the elimination of certain postretirement benefit costs. Click Read More below for additional information.

All papers sourced by UPM Raflatac, whether used as a face paper or a release liner in its labeling materials, are now certified under a credible third-party forest certification scheme. Having all papers certified is one of UPM Raflatac’s 2030 responsible sourcing and climate targets, which was now achieved six years ahead of time. “Reaching our 2030 target this far in advance is a significant milestone that we could not have achieved without the support and close collaboration of our suppliers, and the drive and commitment of our employees. Third-party forest certification is one important element in our responsible sourcing approach, combined with supplier assessment and development activities, as well as continuous risk monitoring and management,” says Maria Seppälä, VP Sourcing, UPM Raflatac.