The Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council (GMSDC) recognized supplier diversity champions at the 35th Spirit of Alliance Awards, held on August 25, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis hotel. The Spirit of Alliance Gala honors the corporations, Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and supplier diversity advocates that are setting the standard for small business development and creating opportunities for minority-owned businesses in Georgia. The Spirit of Alliance Awards honors corporations', Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and supplier diversity advocates that are setting the standard for small business development and creating opportunities for minority-owned businesses in Georgia. Click Read More below for additional information.

Please be advised we plan to increase the price of our 30# (48.8 gsm.) standard newsprint by $30.00 per metric ton. This increase will go into effect in two stages; $15.00 on December 1, 2017 and $15.00 on January 1, 2018. Prices for other newsprint basis weights will increase proportionally as per past practices.

Due to rising costs pulp, raw materials and transportation, Moorim announces a $2.00/cwt increase on all C1S label basis weights in both sheets and rolls, effective from orders received on and after November 1, 2017.

Wisconsin has lost about one-third of its paper mills in the last two decades. More companies are nearly bankrupt or are exploring the possibility of selling their mills. This fall, Industrial Assets Corp., a Los Angeles-based used machinery dealer, bought the Appleton Coated paper mill in Combined Locks, Wisconsin. In addition, Verso Corp. formed a committee to explore the potential sale of some of its mills. The company operates mills in both Duluth and Stevens Point. Jeff Landin, president of the Wisconsin Paper Council, said Wisconsin’s paper industry is doing well overall, but some mills are struggling. "You’ve seen some of that in the Appleton Coated issue where they’ve gone through receivership, but it’s really a byproduct of what they produce. It’s the coated paper market that’s challenged," he said. But, Landin said tissue, packaging and specialty papers make up more than 90 percent of products in Wisconsin’s paper industry. Click Read More below for additional information.

Effective with all new and existing orders with confirmed delivery dates of November 20, 2017 or later, Verso Corporation is increasing the transaction price of all Coated One Side (C1S) sheet and roll products by $2.00/cwt USD/$2.50/cwt CAD. This includes, but is not limited to: Sterling® Ultra C1S; Sterling® Litho C1S; Aspect®; OptiLabel™; UniSil™. The increase applies to all basis weights, bulks, finishes and related private label grades. Should you have any questions, please contact your Verso professional sales representative. Thank you for your continued support.

Total European shipments of graphic papers were UP 0.3% vs. August 2016 and are down 0.4% year-to-date. Total European shipments of newsprint were down 1.0% vs. August 2016 and are down 3.1% year-to-date. Total European shipments of sc-magazine were down 0.8% vs. August 2016 and are UP 1.7% year-to-date. Total European shipments of coated mechanical reels were down 0.6% vs. August 2016 and are down 1.0% year-to-date. Total European shipments of uncoated mechanical were UP 2.3% vs. August 2016 and are UP 2.0% year-to-date. Total European shipments of coated woodfree were UP 2.6% vs. August 2016 and are UP 1.6% year-to-date. Total European shipments of uncoated woodfree were UP 0.8% vs. August 2016 and are down 0.3% year-to-date. Click Read More below for additional information.

Domtar Corporation reported net earnings of $70 million ($1.11 per share) for the third quarter of 2017 compared to net earnings of $38 million ($0.61 per share) for the second quarter of 2017 and net earnings of $59 million ($0.94 per share) for the third quarter of 2016. Sales for the third quarter of 2017 were $1.3 billion. Operating income was $89 million in the third quarter of 2017 compared to operating income of $64 million in the second quarter of 2017. Depreciation and amortization totaled $80 million in the third quarter of 2017. The increase in operating income in the third quarter of 2017 was the result of higher volume and average selling prices, favorable productivity, and lower maintenance and raw material costs. These factors were partially offset by unfavorable exchange rates and higher selling, general and administrative expenses. Click Read More below for additional information.

Mercer International Inc. reported strong results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2017 as Operating EBITDA* increased by 34% to $64.0 million from $47.9 million in the same quarter of 2016 and by 64% from $39.1 million in the prior quarter. In the current quarter, net income increased to $21.1 million, or $0.33 per basic and $0.32 per diluted share, compared to net income of $11.9 million, or $0.18 per basic and diluted share, in the comparative quarter and a net loss of $2.1 million in the prior quarter. Mr. David M. Gandossi, the Chief Executive Officer, stated: "In the third quarter of 2017, pulp prices in Europe and North America increased as a result of continued steady demand and were generally flat in China compared to the prior quarter of 2017. Overall our average pulp sales realizations were approximately 2% higher in the third quarter of 2017 compared to the prior quarter of 2017. " Click Read More below for additional information.

Norbord Inc. reported Adjusted EBITDA of $200 million for the third quarter of 2017 versus $115 million in the third quarter of 2016 and $165 million in the second quarter of 2017. The improvement is primarily due to higher North American oriented strand board (OSB) prices and shipment volumes. North American operations generated Adjusted EBITDA of $184 million compared to $106 million in the same quarter last year and $157 million in the prior quarter. European operations delivered Adjusted EBITDA of $14 million versus $10 million in the same quarter last year and $9 million in the prior quarter. "Our third quarter performance continued to accelerate and we delivered our best Adjusted EBITDA result in 13 years," said Peter Wijnbergen, Norbord's President and CEO. "In North America, our shipment volumes increased 5% and benchmark OSB prices were 36% higher year-over-year due to already strong OSB demand that was pushed even further by the hurricanes in the US south. In Europe, our financial performance is back on track as improved panel prices outpaced the currency translation headwind from the weaker Pound Sterling and the negative impact of higher resin prices." Click Read More below for additional information.

The increase in the Company's cost and expense structure has lagged inflation due to productivity gains and the focus on cost discipline. Our commitment to financial discipline is reinforced by the reductions in both gross and net debt, as well as by significant lengthening of our amortization profile (from 62 to 80 months). The leverage ratio remains at a healthy level (2.3x Net Debt/Adjusted EBITDA) and the total average debt cost remains competitive (4.4% p.a. in USD). The Adjusted EBITDA² of R$1.041/ton and strong Cash Generation¹ of R$795/ton were other metrics in which we outperformed the overall industry. The ROIC of 13.0% reflects the positive impact from pulp prices, as well as from cost and expense discipline and the margin recovery in the paper segment. Click Read More below for additional information.

Glatfelter announced that its Advanced Airlaid Materials Business Unit (AMBU) was recently recognized for exemplary core values and excellent service by Rockline Industries during their annual State of Rockline strategic supplier event in Sheboygan, Wisconsin on October 4, 2017. The Supply RRITE Award recognizes the supplier that best demonstrates the Rockline core values of Renew, Respect, Integrity, Teamwork and Excellence. Rockline is one of the world’s largest private-label manufacturers of coffee filters and consumer, medical and commercial wet wipes. Glatfelter supplies Rockline with airlaid materials manufactured at its facility in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada. Glatfelter also manufactures airlaid materials in its Falkenhagen, Germany facility, and is planning to be operational with its first U.S. airlaid facility in Fort Smith, Arkansas by early 2018. Click Read More below for additional information.

Highlights first 9 months 2017 (vs. first 9 months 2016): * Paper volume hits new record level of 1 158 thousand tons (up 3 thousand tons), with average price still lower than last year * Turnover up +5% with strong performance in pulp, energy and tissue business: − Pulp sales grow 32% in value, with volume and price both rising − Power sales up 16%, reflecting successful operation of power generation assets − Tissue sales grow by 11% in volume and value * EBITDA of € 300 million in line with previous year and EBITDA/sales margin of 25% (vs. 26%). Click Read More below for additional information.

We are pleased that practically all stakeholders targeted in the consent solicitation process are supporting for a consensual recapitalization of the current Norske Skog group. We will now spend time to ensure the registration and documentation of formal support for the recapitalization occurs. Equally important, we will do our outmost to obtain the support to the recapitalization from the holders of the NSF and the 2115 Perpetual Notes holders," said Mr. Christen Sveaas, Chairman of Norske Skogindustrier ASA. Regardless of the outcome of the recapitalization process, the business operations at our seven paper mills will continue as normal. Click Read More below for additional information.

Monadnock Paper Mills announced that Dawn Soucek has joined the company's sales and marketing team as a Senior Technical Sales Manager. Soucek is a proven business development professional with extensive experience in technical/specialty papermaking. For over 11 years, she was responsible for developments in specialty barriers and packaging at Verso Specialty Papers. “Dawn will represent Monadnock from her home base in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. We are looking forward to growing our presence in the mid-west region of the United States where there are significant growth opportunities for Monadnock's technical/specialty papers,” said Brendan Lesch, vice president of sales and marketing at Monadnock. “Dawn's background in packaging, chemistry and applied sciences will help us accelerate the development and customization of new products.”

Mohawk is announcing a price increase of approximately 2.0% on Fine Papers effective with orders taken on December 4, 2017. Please see the attached list for grade specific details. All Fine Paper envelopes will increase by approximately 1.5%. This price increase applies to all contracts and promotions, within agreed upon terms, which have grades included in this announcement. Also note that manufacturing orders for these papers on file with Mohawk prior to December 4, but shipping after that date, will retain the agreed upon price.

We are announcing a US$30/metric tonne (for 48.8 gsm) newsprint price increase to be phased in over two months. The price will increase US$15/metric tonne (for 48.8 gsm) effective with shipments on or after December 1, 2017 and a second US$15/metric tonne (for 48.8 gsm) increase will be implemented with shipments on or after January 1, 2018. Other basis weights will be adjusted accordingly. Please note that this price increase does not apply to Ponderay Newsprint Company.

Sappi North America announces a US$2.00/cwt transactional price increase on new and unconfirmed orders that book with confirmed delivery dates on or after Monday, November 20, 2017 on the following packaging products: LusterCote (all basis weights). Please note that all new orders must be confirmed a minimum of 10 days prior to the commencement of the production run.

We delivered a strong quarter, with earnings above our expectations,” said Mitch Butier, Avery Dennison President and CEO. “LGM’s organic growth rate rebounded, as expected, and margin remained strong; RBIS delivered another great quarter, with continued strong sales growth and margin expansion; and IHM delivered solid organic sales growth while integrating two recently completed acquisitions. “We raised our guidance for full-year earnings per share, reflecting our better than expected operating results,” said Butier. “The effective execution of our strategies continues to enhance our competitive advantage, driving profitable growth and higher returns.” Click Read More below for additional information.

Q3/2017 (year-on-year): Sales of EUR 2 509 (EUR 2 393) million increased 4.8%: the third consecutive quarter of sales growth. Sales excluding the paper business increased 11.1%. Operational EBIT increased 32.4% to EUR 290 (EUR 219) million. This was mainly due to favourable sales prices and increased volumes from the recent strategic investments, and good cost management. The ramp-up of Beihai Mill continues to proceed ahead of plan, and it is expected to reach full production during the first half of 2018, and operational EBITDA break-even in Q4/2017. Q1–Q3/2017 (year-on-year): Sales at EUR 7 534 (EUR 7 364) million increased 2.3%. Sales excluding the paper business increased 9.2%. Operational EBIT at EUR 724 (EUR 693) million increased 4.5%, mainly due to higher volumes. Click Read More below for additional information.

CEO comments, Jan Åström: “We achieved strong organic growth of over five percent in the quarter and were able to maintain our operational result despite the accelerated cost inflation in some of our key raw materials. Our performance was once again led by excellent results in the Filtration & Performance, and Industrial Solutions business areas. We will continue to work on our pricing to mitigate the cost pressure and address the challenges in the coated one-sided papers business. The integration work following the merger is gaining momentum as we achieved an annual run rate of about EUR 17 million in synergy benefits by the end of the quarter. We are now fully comfortable that we can exceed the original target of EUR 35 million and estimate that annual synergy benefits of above EUR 40 million can be reached by the second quarter of 2019. Click Read More below for additional information.

Please be advised we will be increasing the US market price of our newsprint on a 45 gsm basis by $US 32/MT effective with shipments December 1, 2017. 43 gsm and 40 gsm Marathon lite newsprint will be increased according to past practice.

In light of the global market situation for graphic papers, and to sustain its competitiveness and leading position in the market, UPM Paper ENA plans to: • optimize operations at its UPM Nordland Papier and UPM NorService units in Dörpen, Germany, Europe's biggest fine paper site. Streamlining internal processes and investing in automation will enable a sustainable improvement of the fixed cost structure. • permanently close paper machine 5 at UPM Blandin in Minnesota, United States, reducing the annual capacity by approximately 128,000 tons of coated magazine paper in response to overcapacities in the North American paper market. The closure is expected to be completed by end of Q1 2018 the latest. Paper production related to paper machine 6 is planned to continue at the Blandin site. In total 223 positions are estimated to be affected by these plans in Dörpen at UPM Nordland Papier and UPM NorService. At UPM Blandin, it is estimated that 150 positions will be affected by the plans. Click Read More below for additional information.

Q3 2017 highlights: •Comparable EBIT increased by 12% to EUR 351 million (314 million in Q3 2016). •Good growth in deliveries and strong operational efficiency with no significant maintenance activity. •Strong operating cash flow at EUR 486 million (506 million). •Net debt decreased to EUR 623 million (1,479 million). •UPM announced a new focused growth project at the UPM Chudovo plywood mill in Russia. •UPM announced the next step towards entering a new sustainable biochemicals business. Q1-Q3 2017 highlights: •Comparable EBIT increased by 8% to EUR 926 million (859 million in Q1-Q3 2016). •Solid profit performance continued through a turn in input cost environment. Click Read More below for additional information.

UPM moves forward with the development of biochemicals business by evaluating the potential of building a biorefinery in the Chemical Park Frankfurt-Höchst in Germany. The new-to-the-world biorefinery would combine novel technologies and utilize sustainable wood raw material in an innovative way. This opportunity is the outcome of more than five years of extensive technology development and piloting. The planned industrial scale biorefinery would convert wood into bio-monoethylene glycol (bMEG), bio-monopropylene glycol (bMPG) and lignin up to 150,000 metric tons per year. Production would be based on hardwood from sustainably managed forests in Central Europe. Application areas for bio-monoethylene glycol include textiles, bottles, packaging and deicing fluids. Click Read More below for additional information.

UPM further strengthens its position as the leading plywood manufacturer in Europe. Following successful growth investments in Finland and Estonia over the past few years, UPM expands its Chudovo plywood mill in Russia by investing EUR 50 million. The project will increase the mill's production capacity by 45,000 to 155,000 m3 while also broadening the mill's product portfolio. In addition to the production capacity growth, a new bio heat boiler will be built at the mill site. "The expansion of the Chudovo mill is an important step in executing our strategy. Our goal is to further strengthen our leading position in priority end-use segments. New competitive birch plywood capacity improves our ability to respond to growing demand in our key markets, while delivering industry-leading quality and reliability," says Mika Sillanpää, Executive Vice President of UPM Plywood. Click Read More below for additional information.

Ahlstrom-Munksjö, a global leader in fiber-based materials, announces the launch of Ahlstrom-Munksjö PureArmor™, a breathable impervious fabric for blood borne pathogen and cleanroom apparel protection. “PureArmor™ eliminates the need to choose between comfort and protection. It offers the highest possible level of protection for sensitive environments without sacrificing the wearer's comfort, which is unique when compared to fabrics frequently used in cleanroom apparel,” said Lionel Bonte, Vice President, Medical, Ahlstrom-Munksjö. The new PureArmor™ fabric is a next generation tri-laminate nonwoven that has extremely low lint, making it suitable for applications that are sensitive to particle contamination. Click Read More below for additional information.

Operating profit for January–September 2017 was SEK 1 745 million (January–September 2016: SEK 1 583 million excluding items affecting comparability). The improvement in earnings was due to higher wood product prices and better earnings from forests. Compared with the second quarter, operating profit increased by SEK 68 million to SEK 593 million, mainly because second-quarter earnings were negatively affected by a maintenance shutdown. Profit after tax for January–September amounted to SEK 1 336 million (982), which corresponds to earnings per share of SEK 15.9 (11.7). Return on capital employed increased to 9.4 (8.4) per cent. Cash flow was strong during the year. A dividend of SEK 1 008 million has been paid while net financial debt decreased by SEK 360 million.

Neenah announces the highly anticipated relaunch of Touché Papers. With new color additions to the line, Neenah now has a complete portfolio of the best-selling soft touch papers on the market. The name Touché, which comes from the French verb toucher, meaning, “to touch,” depicts the essence of these papers. “Soft touch papers are ideal for projects that are meant to get noticed. Handing someone a business card that not only looks beautiful, but also feels unique is guaranteed to make an impression. An elegant book cover with this soft, subtle texture instantly invites the consumer to reach out and touch it. These papers are elegant and sophisticated, are known for their on-press performance, and offer a luxurious touch like no other paper can,” says Auburne Gahlman, Marketing Manager, Neenah. Click Read More below for additional information.

According to the September 2017 Printing-Writing Monthly report from the American Forest & Paper Association, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased five percent in September compared to September 2016. All four of the major printing-writing grades posted year-over-year shipment declines. U.S. purchases of printing-writing papers also decreased, down six percent in September. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels increased one-half of one percent from August. •September uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper shipments decreased year-over-year following the year-over-year increase in August. Imports of UFS decreased by 18% year-over-year in August – this follows two consecutive decreases of 20% or more. Meanwhile, exports of UFS papers increased 17% year-over-year in August, which follows three consecutive increases of 20% or more. •Operating rate for coated free sheet (CFS) paper producers in September hits highest level since September 2016. U.S. imports of CFS papers decreased 9% year-over-year in August, the second consecutive year-over-year decline. Exports of CFS papers increased 6% year-over-year in August, the sixth increase in the past eight months. •Coated mechanical (CM) paper shipments declined year-over-year in September for the fourth consecutive month. Imports of CM increased in August, up 7% compared to August 2016. Exports of CM also increased, up 28% in August to 35,700 tons – the highest level since November 2016. •Shipments of uncoated mechanical (UM) papers have declined year-over-year in every month when compared to the same month in 2016. Imports of UM decreased 11% year-over-year in August while exports of UM increased 1% year-over-year in August – the fifth year-over-year increase in the first eight months of 2017.

Canfor Corporation reported net income attributable to shareholders (“shareholder net income”) of $66.2 million, or $0.51 per share, for the third quarter of 2017, compared to shareholder net income of $81.3 million, or $0.61 per share, for the second quarter of 2017 and net income attributable to shareholders of $50.9 million, or $0.38 per share, for the third quarter of 2016. For the nine months ended September 30, 2017, shareholder net income was $213.6 million, or $1.62 per share, compared to $112.9 million, or $0.85 per share, for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The Company reported operating income of $105.4 million for the third quarter of 2017, down $25.6 million from reported operating income of $131.0 million for the second quarter of 2017, with the decline reflecting lower operating earnings in both the lumber and pulp and paper segments. Lumber segment results were impacted by a decline in Southern Yellow Pine (“SYP”) lumber prices, a 5 cent, or 7%, stronger Canadian dollar, as well as increased log costs in Western Canada, the latter reflecting continued weather-related challenges and the effects of the worst fire season in recorded history in the BC Interior. Click Read More below for additional information.

Canfor Pulp Products Inc. reported net income of $12.6 million, or $0.19 per share, for the third quarter of 2017, compared to $20.2 million, or $0.31 per share, for the second quarter of 2017 and $22.4 million, or $0.34 per share, for the third quarter of 2016. For the nine months ended September 30, 2017, the Company’s net income was $56.9 million, or $0.86 per share, compared to $47.7 million, or $0.70 per share, for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The Company reported operating income of $21.1 million for the third quarter of 2017, down $10.4 million from the $31.5 million reported for the second quarter of 2017. While pulp shipments and production were both up quarter-over-quarter, the related increase in operating income was more than offset by the impact on unit pulp and paper sales realizations of a significantly stronger Canadian dollar. Pulp shipments and production volumes were up 10% and 11%, respectively, from the previous quarter, principally reflecting a decline in scheduled maintenance outages. Click Read More below for additional information.

Executive Summary: ◦Third quarter 2017 net sales of $4.6 billion increased 1 percent compared to the year-ago period. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates benefited sales by nearly 1 percent and organic sales rose slightly. Organic sales were similar in North American consumer products. Outside North America, organic sales increased 3 percent in developing and emerging markets and fell 3 percent in developed markets. ◦Diluted net income per share for the third quarter was $1.60 in 2017 and $1.52 in 2016. Results benefited from volume growth, cost savings and reduced marketing, research and general spending, while performance was impacted by lower net selling prices and input cost inflation. ◦The company continues to expect that full-year 2017 net sales and organic sales will be similar, or up slightly, year-on-year. The company also continues to anticipate that full-year 2017 earnings per share will be at the low end of its target range of $6.20 to $6.35. Click Read More below for additional information.

Effective immediately, the temporary order moratorium on CFS Web, Economy Sheets, and C1S has been lifted. Please work with your Midland Paper, Packaging & Supplies Sales Representative if you have any questions.

All the major shareholder groups of Norske Skogindustrier ASA have indicated their strong support for the consensual recapitalization solution between the Unsecured Committee and the Senior Secured Noteholder Committee reached yesterday. Among the 20 largest shareholders, who control about 38 % of the total number of shares in Norske Skogindustrier ASA, there are already over 75 % support for the recapitalization proposal. At the last general meetings, there have been about 35 - 40 % attendance from the shareholders, where the largest shareholders would constitute more than 90 % of the votes. The transaction will need the support of existing shareholders of Norske Skogindustrier ASA, with a 2/3 majority in an extraordinary general meeting. Among the 20 largest shareholders, there are some nominee accounts, where the shareholder is not known to the public or the company. Such nominee accounts represent almost 20 % of the total number of shares controlled by the 20 largest shareholders, and their vote is therefore unknown to the company. "We are pleased to see that all known major shareholders will support the recapitalization transaction. As repeatedly stated, all alternatives to a consensual solution will entail significantly less value for all parties and rather complicated insolvency processes. If the proposal is successful, the transaction will reduce the group's gross debt from approximately NOK 9 billion to approximately NOK 3 billion and reduce annual cash interest costs from approximately NOK 600 to 200 million", says Mr. Christen Sveaas, chairman and the largest shareholder of Norske Skogindustrier ASA. Click Read More below for additional information.

The price increase for both product ranges will be from 8 to 10% depending on format and country. This price movement is essential in order to offset the continuous increase in manufacturing and distribution costs. Lecta sales teams are at our customers' disposal to provide specific information on how the price increase will be applied by product on a country by country basis.

Steven Mattes, CEO of Industrial Assets Corp., states the site has over a billion USD of investment capital put into the infrastructure and equipment at the site. The workforce is determined to keep the mill in operation with a high level of technical knowledge and work ethic. Industrial Assets and its partner, Maynards Industries, are uniquely suited to find the perfect strategic buyer, most likely in the growing packaging grade sector. This mill's infrastructure is very desirable, featuring a 50 MW Cogeneration system, which will provide low cost energy, the site includes rail service, all permits in place for an immediate restart for a domestic or foreign buyer. This 55-acre site with 1.2 million sq. ft. is ideal for running containerboard grades. The (3) paper machines have trim widths ideal to serve the corrugator converters with a customer base ready to enter into production output agreements. The Jagenberg off-machine coater laminator provides the distinct advantage to produce linerboard to the growing demand of the high end graphics segment of commodity packaging. "We have a combined ability to provide direct financing and leasing program for all size companies to take advantage of this very unique opportunity," said Taso Sofikitis, CEO/President of Maynards. Click Read More below for additional information.

RISI reports that LEIPA will increase the transaction price of all coated mechanical reels by 30 Euros per ton for all grades in all markets.

For a variety of reasons we haven’t been able to reach our targeted output when running 70# Orca. Now with the new two machine scenario coming we have a new scenario and we can’t continue making all current grades. Even though we run the risk (small) of losing some 50 & 60# Orca offset we have come to the conclusion that 70# Orca Offset needs to be discontinued. Therefore we have no future blocks of this grade in our production planning. If you do get inquiries from the market kindly inform customers that we have discontinued production of 70# Orca Offset.

In order to better serve our Customer’s needs, BCI Hawkeye completed in October the installation of a Bobst VISIONCUT 1.6 PR autoplaten die-cutter with Power Register, a state-of-the-art system for unmatched print-to-cut accuracy. This technology will support the growing need for precision die-cutting of micro flute, single wall, double wall, and litho-laminated corrugated board.

The forest industry continues to be a key export sector and a major employer in Finland. Its economic importance is emphasised by the fact that raw materials and services needed in production are mainly sourced from Finland. Metsä Group's Äänekoski bioproduct mill is an example of the forest industry of the new era. Its positive impacts on the Finnish economy are substantial,” Sauli Niinistö says. The forest industry continues to be a key export sector and a major employer in Finland. Its economic importance is emphasised by the fact that raw materials and services needed in production are mainly sourced from Finland. Metsä Group's Äänekoski bioproduct mill is an example of the forest industry of the new era. Its positive impacts on the Finnish economy are substantial,” Sauli Niinistö says. Pulp production at Äänekoski is increasing to 1.3 million tonnes from roughly 0.5 million tonnes. The bioproduct mill is a significant project in terms of Metsä Group’s competitiveness. It is expected to achieve its nominal capacity in mid-2018, which will make Metsä Group the world’s largest producer of softwood market pulp. With this new bioproduct mill, Äänekoski’s industrial ecosystem will develop and grow further, as the mill serves as a platform for the manufacture of new bioproducts. In the first phase, new bioproducts will include product gas, sulphuric acid, biogas and biofuel pellets. Key bioproduct development projects include lignin products, textile fibres and biocomposites. Click Read More below for additional information.

Continuous sharp input cost rises since the beginning of the year, particularly pulp prices, have now increased to a point where Sappi can no longer absorb them . Therefore Sappi Europe today announces price increases for all Packaging and Speciality Papers with effect of January 1st, 2018. The increase will be 7 % for all uncoated grades and 5 % for all coated grades for Flexible Packaging, Label Papers, Containerboard, Silicon Base Papers and Paperboard. The price rise will apply to all European and Overseas markets. The final implementation will be discussed by Sappi’s sales team with their customers over the next weeks. Existing agreements will be certainly respected.

The temporary moratorium on order entry of new manufacturing orders of Coated and Uncoated Freesheet Web products from Verso Corporation has been lifted. Please work with your Midland Paper, Packaging & Supplies customer service representatives as soon as possible for your Coated Freesheet Web needs. Should you have any questions, please contact your Midland Paper, Packaging & Supplies professional sales representative. Thank you for your continued support.

Due to recent industry events and in order to protect the planned requirements of Verso’s existing customer base, there will be a temporary moratorium on order entry of new manufacturing orders of both C1S and C2S Coated and Uncoated Freesheet Web products. The moratorium is applicable to all Coated and Uncoated Freesheet Web, including but not limited to: Coated Freesheet Web: ArborWeb Plus®; Sterling® Ultra; Sterling® Ultra Book; Sterling® Ultra TrueJet®; Sterling® Ultra caliper; Productolith® Pts. C1S and C2S; Publishers Matte®; Publishers ThinBulk®: ArborWeb®; Influence®; Influence® Book; Focus®; Aspect®; Sterling® Ultra C1S; Sterling® Litho C1S; Ideal® Offset; Ideal® Reply Card. This temporary moratorium will be lifted as soon as practical, but could last as long as 48 hours.

Effective with deliveries on or after November 18, 2017, UPM is increasing the transaction price of all Coated Groundwood and Coated Freesheet Web grades. The transaction price of Coated Groundwood Grades will increase $1.00/cwt, including all basis weights and finishes of: Cote; Ultra; Valor; & Star. The transaction price of Coated Freesheet Web will increase $2.00/cwt, including all basis weights and finishes of Finesse.

Mohawk introduced the thirteenth issue of its celebrated Mohawk Maker Quarterly at AIGA’s annual Design Conference in Minneapolis. Each issue of the Mohawk Maker Quarterly relies on a single word for its creative framework. In issue thirteen, that word is disruption. Consistent with the ongoing strategy behind the publication, issue thirteen seeks to provide thought-provoking inspiration for graphic designers around the world through engaging content and well-considered design on paper. Issue thirteen may have been the most challenging issue to date. That’s because the term “disruption” is so commonly used that it’s lost its meaning. Bandied about business culture as the term-du-jour, disruption has earned more than a few eye rolls and for good reason. Despite this troublesome ubiquity, disruption’s essence of exploration, discovery and revolution are successfully recaptured in issue thirteen. To do this, the team at Hybrid Design went looking for thinkers and doers who are upending the world as we know it. These iconoclasts are reframing the way we consider such basic concepts as time, ownership and success. They’re redefining images, spaces and perceptions in radical ways. Click Read More below for additional information.

The board of directors and management of Norske Skog are pleased to announce that it has managed to broker a consensual solution between the Unsecured Committee, the Senior Secured Noteholder Committee and major shareholders. The two bondholder committees and the major shareholders have agreed on a split of the equity ownership of Norske Skogindustrier ASA, following the recapitalization transaction that these groups will support. With this development, over 80% of the senior secured noteholders and more than 50% of the unsecured noteholders have now indicated their willingness to support such an adjusted recapitalization proposal. Therefore, the relevant boards in the Norske Skog group have resolved to revise the terms of the ongoing consent solicitation in accordance with the split agreed. The formal consent solicitation deadline is extended until Wednesday 25 October at 17:00 CET to allow adequate time for the group's noteholders to submit their formal consents. Click Read More below for additional information.

Effective immediately, Sappi is announcing a temporary order moratorium on all items of the following: • Opus Web • Somerset Web • Flo Web • Flo Sheets and Sheeter Rolls • LusterCote C1S. Any unconfirmed orders in our system and any inquiries will be held for review through Thursday, October 19th, when we will determine which orders and inquiries we can confirm. In light of recent industry developments, this is a short-term measure designed to secure Sappi’s production capacity for the protection of Sappi’s existing customers.

West Linn Paper Company today annouced that it is ceasing operations and will commence a winding up of its business supervised by its second lien lender. "We are deeply disappointed to end the mill’s 128 year history, the last twenty of which resulted from a major restructuring and restart when our current ownership took control of West Linn Paper Company. The commitment and support that we received from our employees, our lenders and our owners as we sought to adapt to structural changes in our markets has been remarkable. However, several unforeseeable events have led to a significant reduction in available pulp, making continued operations impossible. As a result we will wind up our operations as quickly and efficiently as possible, beginning immediately." states Brian Konen, Chief Operating Officer for West Linn Paper Company. Company officials said that orders for stock product will continue to be accepted. Orders that have been produced but not yet shipped will be shipped. Manufacturing orders that have been accepted, but not yet produced, will be reviewed and customers will be contacted shortly with confirmations as to whether those orders will be produced. The Company will not be accepting new manufacturing orders going forward.

We would like to provide an update regarding today’s announcement by West Linn Paper Company that it is ceasing operations. It is with disappointment that we learned of West Linn Paper’s closure. The mill has a proud history of 128 years, including the past 20 years since it was restarted under the current ownership. We understand that operating as a non-integrated paper mill was ultimately impossible in today’s challenging marketplace, particularly given recent events resulting in a significant reduction of pulp availability. At Port Hawkesbury Paper, it will be business as usual. Click Read More below for additional information.

Sappi North America, a leading producer and supplier of diversified paper and packaging products, today announced the ten grant recipients of its 18th annual Ideas that Matter program, where financial support is given to designers who create print integrated projects to maximize social impact. The ten projects selected this year highlight how design and creativity can help solve prominent social issues. Through communication projects and campaigns using paper and print, the winning projects focus on climate change, encourage high school students to consider urban planning, educate girls about their reproductive rights, support quality journalism, address prison reform, and explore solutions for delivering humanitarian aid - inspiring change across the country, and around the world. As an integral part of Sappi's corporate social responsibility platform since 1999, the Ideas that Matter grant program has funded over 500 nonprofit projects and contributed more than $13 million to a wide range of causes that use design as a positive force in society. The program is open to North American designers who have partnered with a nonprofit organization and developed a communication campaign that is ready for implementation. Click Read More below for additional information.

1. PRICING ANNOUNCEMENT: Neenah is announcing a price increase of approximately 2% on select Commercial Brands of paper and envelopes. The list below provides information for all brands that are being increased. 2. NON-REPLENISHED SKU ANNOUNCEMENT: In our continuing effort to provide best-in-class service to you on our core brands and our high performing items, we will no longer be replenishing select under-performing skus from our portfolio. The impacted items will be available while supplies last. Click Read More below for additional information.

Neenah is announcing a price increase of approximately 3% - 5% on several of our Wide Format brands. We’ve also taken this opportunity to better align our conVerd Board® brand pricing across the products within that portfolio. The list below information for all brands that are being increased. Wide Format - BANNER-BRITE; BLOX-LITE®; CITYLIGHT®; CONVERD BOARD® 1.5MM; CONVERD BOARD® 3.0 MM; CONVERD BOARD® 3.5MM; CONVERD BOARD® 4.7MM; CONVERD BOARD® 6.0 MM; DIGISCAPE®; DUOBOARD®; ENDURA®; EVERYDAY PHOTO; ENVIROSCAPE MURAL®; FLEXART®; GREENLIGHT® II Plus; IMAGEASE®; LUSTRÉ BOARD®; NEENAH® Photo Satin. Wide Format Brands excluded from this price increase include: CLASSIC CREST® Wide Format, ESSE® Wide Format and ASTROBRIGHTS® Wide Format. Click Read More below for additional information.

The Antidumping and Countervailing Duties cases filed by Norpac in August against the Canadian UGW industry has reached the official stage of being investigated by the United States ITC and DOC. The increasing legal costs and the incremental costs associated with the inordinate amount of our corporate personnel’s time that is associated with the efforts needed to defend ourselves from the unfounded accusations levied on our industry are staggering. We also expect to have to start depositing interim duties beginning in early January 2018. Therefore, effective December 1, 2017, we will increase our 48.8 gms newsprint transaction price by $30/MT. The transaction price for our other newsprint and UGW grades and basis weights will increase accordingly. It is Kruger’s intention to rescind this increase once the threat of the duties is lifted and once the investigation is completed.

Due to insufficient results and the significant cost increases for pulp and other raw materials, chemicals and logistics Papierfabrik August Koehler SE is increasing its prices for all products by 7 - 12 % for deliveries from January 1st 2018 onwards.

In the wake of the destruction caused by a series of hurricanes that recently hit the Southern United States and the Caribbean, Resolute has stepped up to assist the rebuilding and humanitarian efforts with donations of lumber and tissue products, as well as basic necessities. We are donating, through Habitat for Humanity, a railcar of lumber to Houston, devastated by unprecedented flooding triggered by Hurricane Harvey. The lumber will be used to help rebuild Habitat homes that were damaged, at no cost to the homeowners, as well as for new homes scheduled for construction later this fall and during the spring of next year. The lumber will be shipped from our La Doré (Quebec) sawmill and is scheduled to arrive in Houston by mid-November. We also sent tens of thousands of packages of bath tissue and paper towels from our Calhoun (Tennessee) operation. Click Read More below for additional information.

On October 10, 2017, Industrial Assets Corp. completed the purchase of Appleton Coated LLC. Industrial Assets Corp. is a California-based corporation specializing in capital financing acquisition and sale of distressed manufacturing companies. Going forward, Appleton Coated will continue limited operations while working with Industrial Assets to secure a strategic buyer that plans to operate at full capacity. To that end, Appleton Coated will be taking/processing orders and has stock of its Utopia, C1S, Reincarnation and Ethos products. Our Customer Service area is available from 7:00 AM CST to 5:30 PM CST to accept inquiries and orders. We look forward to continuing to work with you and thank you for your support and loyalty to Appleton Coated. Click Read More below for additional information.

Neenah Paper, Inc. announced it had signed a definitive agreement to purchase all of the outstanding equity of W.A. Sanders Coldenhove Holding B.V. Coldenhove is a specialty materials manufacturer based in the Netherlands, with a leading position in digital transfer media and other technical products. Coldenhove has annual sales of over $45 million with EBITDA of approximately $6 million. The company's advanced media is a critical component used in dye sublimation, a growing method of digital image transfer. The purchase price is expected to be approximately $45 million, subject to final closing adjustments, and will be financed with available cash and short term borrowings. Closing is expected to occur on November 1, and is subject to customary conditions. Click Read More below for additional information.

The new system has limited data entry requirements allowing individuals interested in a career with Catalyst to enter their credentials quickly and easily. The new system also allows the company to maintain an easily searchable database of candidates for current or future jobs. Anyone interested in employment with Catalyst or considering a job change should visit the company’s careers site (catalystpaper.com/careers) and input their credentials. For over a century, Catalyst has been an integral part of the North American pulp and paper industry. It is proud to be recognized as a leader in product technology innovation and environmental sustainability, founded on a tradition of operational excellence and personal ownership for business performance. Click Read More below for additional information.

Glatfelter, the York, Pa.-based global manufacturer of specialty papers and fiber-based engineered materials, soon will begin making its sought-after “airlaid” products in Fort Smith for the “wipes and hygiene markets.” The company announced in March 2016 it would spend $80 million to repurpose the unused Mitsubishi building at 8201 Chad Colley Blvd. in Fort Smith’s Chaffee Crossing for what has become its 13th manufacturing facility. Glatfelter is creating at least 80 new, high-tech manufacturing jobs in Fort Smith. The company projected in March 2016 it would be up and running in Fort Smith by late 2017 or early 2018. Click Read More below for additional information.

Effective for all new and confirmed orders with deliveries of November 1, 2017 and later, Catalyst Paper will be implementing a price increase of $2.00/cwt for the following paper products: Coated Freesheet Grades: Orion®; Vision®. This increase applies to all basis weights, finishes, grade extensions and related private label products.

Effective with shipments of November 1, 2017 West Linn Paper Company will be increasing prices of our coated products by 4 - 7% on all surfaces of the following products: •Capistrano •Sonoma •Nature Plus •Nature. This price increase applies to all basis weights and finishes plus all related private label grades and associated brand extensions.