Verso Announces Plans to Restart Paper Machine in Jay, Maine

Verso Corporation announced plans to upgrade the shuttered pulp line and No. 3 paper machine at its Androscoggin Mill in Jay, Maine, enabling this equipment to restart for the manufacture of packaging products. The paper machine and associated pulping capacity were temporarily idled in January 2017 and shut down in July 2017 as a result of declining demand for the graphic paper products formerly produced on the machine. With an anticipated completion date in the third quarter of this year, this project will help Verso continue to diversify its product mix into growing market segments and is expected to create approximately 120 full-time jobs at the mill and additional jobs throughout the Maine forest products supply chain. The estimated total capital cost of the project is $17 million, $4 million of which will come from a Maine Technology Asset Fund 2.0 challenge grant administered by the Maine Technology Institute. Funds from the grant will be become available as certain milestones in the project are reached. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Verso Corporation Expands Strategic Alternatives Considerations

Verso Corporation announced that the Strategic Alternatives Committee formed by its Board of Directors in September 2017, has, at the direction of the Board, expanded its evaluation of potential transaction alternatives to include other alternatives, including but not limited to, a potential sale or merger of the entire company. As previously announced, the Committee, with the assistance of Houlihan Lokey Capital, Inc., the company's financial advisor, has been charged with identifying and evaluating a range of potential strategic transaction alternatives to maximize value to Verso stockholders, and with recommending to the Board whether any potential transaction is in the best interests of the company and its stockholders. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Production disruptions impact profit negatively at BillerudKorsnas

The difficulties with production availability continued in the fourth quarter 2017 which impacted sales volumes negatively despite a very strong market. Operating profit (EBIT) for full year 2017 is calculated to be approximately MSEK 2 240 which is lower than expected but gives a margin of 10 percent. It is mainly the production facilities in Gruvön and Gävle that are affected, which impact sales negatively within business areas Consumer Board and Corrugated Solutions. Click Read More below for additional information.
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EXPERA’S RESIN-GARD™ Saturating Papers

Expera Specialty Solutions product brand, Resin-Gard™, represents its advanced line of saturating papers engineered to achieve uniform saturant (resin or latex) pickup required by manufacturers to meet finished product performance requirements. Resin-Gard™ offers dimensional stability, engineered strength, and surface properties that meet specific processing needs, providing customers with a comprehensive line of quality products. “Resin-Gard™ provides the market with multiple application possibilities,” said Jeff Murphy, Director of Sales and Marketing for Expera Specialty Solutions. “From building and construction and home décor, to recreation and filter medium, the possibilities are endless.” Click Read More below for additional information.
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Market launch for Sappi’s Fusion Uncoated Announced

Sappi expands its container board product range and with Fusion Uncoated, offers an uncoated fresh fibre liner in the corrugated board market. With the development of Sappi’s Fusion Uncoated, a fully bleached fresh fibre liner, the specialist paper manufacturer is continuing to expand its product offering for the high-volume corrugated board market. Fusion Uncoated is based on the paper concept for the already very successful Fusion Topliner. In contrast to the double-coated Fusion Topliner, Fusion Uncoated has a natural, uncoated surface. Ideal applications include corrugated board and carton packaging, requiring a high white appearance for the topliner, inner liner and fluting. "Sappi's core expertise lies in the production of fresh fibre papers,” says Bernd Gelder, Product Group Manager for Containerboard at Sappi. “This makes the development of Fusion Uncoated a logical next step in our ambition to create an ever more appealing container board portfolio. We can now offer an uncoated surface with a natural look for the premium corrugated board sector. Fusion Uncoated is wood-free and impresses with its high whiteness and strength values." Click Read More below for additional information.
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UPM Biofuels receives Uruguay’s first RSB sustainability certification for biofuel feedstock

UPM Biofuels has received a sustainability certificate for the cultivation of the Brassica carinata crop - a new feedstock for biofuel production - in Uruguay. The RSB (The Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials) certification in biofuel feedstock production complements UPM Biofuels' existing sustainability certifications like ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) and RSB certifications for its UPM BioVerno biofuel production. "RSB certification acknowledges our strong commitment to sustainability in all operations, now also in biofuel feedstock production with local farmers. This is also the first RSB certificate in Uruguay and creates new sustainable practices for agriculture," says Liisa Ranta, Manager, Sustainability, UPM Biofuels Development.
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Irving Paper mill employee treated in hospital after butane detected

Irving Paper, Irving Wallboard plant and J.D. Irving Ltd. offices on Bayside Drive all remained closed Thursday night, but employees could be back to work on Friday, based on preliminary air quality tests at the mill, said Keith. "Employees will return to these work sites when two separate tests have determined we meet the safe, regulated exposure levels," she said. "Employee safety is our top priority and a responsibility that we take very seriously." "The evacuation of the mill and [air quality] testing was underway prior to the employee reporting to hospital," said Keith. The company is maintaining contact with the employee and co-operating fully with WorksafeNB, she added. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Domtar Announces Price Increase on Sheets and Rolls

Effective with shipments February 12, 2018 the price for the following products will increase by 3%-6%: • Cougar® Rolls and Sheets • Lynx® Opaque Ultra Rolls and Sheets • Husky® Opaque Offset Rolls and Sheets • EarthChoice® Opaque Offset 30% Rolls and Sheets • Domtar Reply Card Rolls and Sheets • EarthChoice® Colors Opaque Text and Cover • EarthChoice® Colors Multipurpose • EarthChoice® Colors Index, Tag and Vellum Bristol • EarthChoice® Hots Text and Cover • EarthChoice® Tradebook • ci2000® • EarthChoice® Envelope including colors • Engineering Laser Bond • Enterprise Postal Advantage™ • Laser Forms Bond including processed rolls and box forms • White Wove Envelope • Domtar Bagstock • Domtar Tablet • Brown Kraft Envelope • Domtar Ink Jet products including processed rolls • Business Papers products including Xerox® Vitality and all Domtar mill and private label brands • Xerox® Bold and Xerox® Revolution products. Price increases apply to all pack types; rolls, folio and cut size. All current standard differentials and upcharges remain in effect.
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Resolute Forest Products Praises Canada’s Filing at WTO

Resolute Forest Products Inc. expressed praise for Wednesday's filing by the Government of Canada at the World Trade Organization (WTO). Canada launched a wide-ranging complaint against the United States, challenging a host of measures inconsistent with its WTO obligations. Resolute applauds the Canadian action, standing up for Canadian jobs and families, the company's customers and business partners in the United States, and the international rule of law. "Resolute has been a victim of this pattern of behavior by the United States Department of Commerce. We are repeatedly confronting the same discredited protectionist policies when we fairly sell paper and lumber to American consumers who need and want these products," stated Richard Garneau, president and chief executive officer. Click Read More below for additional information.
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AF&PA Targets Trade, Transportation, Paper-Options Safeguards and Regulatory Reform Among Top 2018 Advocacy Priorities

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) announced its top 2018 advocacy priorities that include free and fair trade, transportation efficiencies, regulatory process reforms and government policies that respect market dynamics for paper-based products. The association will pursue them as it supports the pulp, paper, packaging and wood products industry’s ability to grow the economy and create American manufacturing jobs. “Enactment of historic comprehensive tax reform sets a welcome stage for AF&PA to focus on key 2018 advocacy priorities that will further our industry’s ability boost the economy and create jobs and opportunity for all Americans,” said AF&PA President and CEO Donna Harman. “Free and fair trade policy, efficient transportation measures, systemic regulatory process reforms and policies that respect market place competition and consumer choice for paper-based products rank high on our list. We are eager to continue working with the Administration and Congress and state governments to advance shared goals that will open the door for our companies to invest, innovate and compete at home and around the globe. With more than 900,000 employees in rural and urban communities across 45 states, we are one of the largest manufacturing sectors in the nation with an ability to thrive with the support of forward-thinking public policy.” Click Read More below for additional information.
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FPAC Statement on Uncoated Groundwood Duties

The US Department of Commerce imposed unwarranted countervailing duties up to 9.93% on imported Canadian uncoated groundwood paper (newsprint). Forest Products Association of Canada strongly believes that these duties are completely unjustified and protectionist in nature. We call on the federal government to stand with us and the over 4,500 hard-working Canadians from British Columbia to Newfoundland and Labrador who could be impacted by this frivolous trade action. As it has with the softwood lumber dispute, this trade action will bring real harm to U.S. workers and businesses, impacting over 600,000 American jobs. We applaud the leadership of the many Democratic and Republican U.S. Senators, and the publishers of over one thousand small and medium-sized U.S. newspapers who have demanded that Washington not impose countervailing and anti-dumping duties on Canadian newsprint. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Forest Sector Applauds Canada’s Filing at WTO to Fight For Jobs and Communities Affected by U.S. Duties

Wednesday, 1/10/18, the Government of Canada launched a complaint against the United States challenging Washington’s use of anti-dumping and anti-subsidy duties. Canada said U.S. procedures broke the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Anti-Dumping Agreement, the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, and the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes. “These rates tabled last night by the U.S. on uncoated groundwood paper represent the third action that stands to hurt hard working men and women in our mill communities across Canada,” says Derek Nighbor, CEO, Forest Products Association of Canada. “These duties are unwarranted and without merit and we 100% support the federal government’s “WTO filing” position. Canada and the U.S. share a longstanding and important relationship, but in the face of these unfounded trade actions it’s important that our government defends Canada’s interests”.
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ITA International Trade Administration : Preliminary Determination in the Countervailing Duty Investigation of Imports of Uncoated Groundwood Paper from Canada

• Commerce has calculated a preliminary subsidy rate of 6.09 percent for mandatory respondent Catalyst Paper Corporation (Catalyst), 9.93 percent for mandatory respondent Kruger Trois-Rivieres L.P. (Kruger), 4.42 percent for mandatory respondent Resolute FP Canada Inc. (Resolute) and 0.65 percent for voluntary respondent White Birch Paper Canada Company NSULC (White Birch). All other producers/exporters in Canada have been assigned a preliminary subsidy rate of 6.53 percent. • As a result of the preliminary affirmative determination, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to require cash deposits based on these preliminary rates. • The merchandise covered by this investigation is certain paper that has not been coated on either side and with 50 percent or more of the cellulose fiber content consisting of groundwood pulp, including groundwood pulp made from recycled paper, weighing not more than 90 grams per square meter. Groundwood pulp includes all forms of pulp produced from a mechanical pulping process, such as thermo-mechanical process (TMP), chemi-thermo mechanical process (CTMP), bleached chemi-thermo mechanical process (BCTMP) or any other mechanical pulping process. The scope includes paper shipped in any form, including but not limited to both rolls and sheets. Certain uncoated groundwood paper includes but is not limited to standard newsprint, high bright newsprint, book publishing, directory, and printing and writing papers. The scope includes paper that is white, off-white, cream, or colored. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Norpac praises Commerce move to slap duties on Canadian papermakers

In a victory for Norpac — and potential blow to local newspapers — the U.S. Department of Commerce announced Tuesday that it will start imposing preliminary antidumping and countervailing duties on Canadian paper producers. The move comes in response to a petition filed in August in which the Longview papermaker alleged that Canadian paper manufacturers hold an unfair advantage over domestic producers. Norpac claimed that Canadian paper companies benefit from 65 different subsidies that add up to hundreds of millions of dollars. The federal and provincial subsidies include government grants, tax breaks, subsidized loans, raw materials at below-market costs and cheap subsidized electricity, according to Norpac. A Commerce investigation found that Canadian uncoated groundwood paper — the same product used to print newspapers — was subsidized by an average of 6.53 percent, Norpac said Tuesday. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Preliminary information on Metsä Board’s sales and profitability in the fourth quarter of 2017

Due to suspected information security breach Metsä Board Corporation announces preliminary information on sales and profitability in the fourth quarter of 2017. In the fourth quarter of 2017, sales were approximately EUR 451 million, comparable operating result was approximately EUR 54 million and earnings per share were approximately EUR 0.12. Figures are based on preliminary unaudited information. Metsä Board Corporation will publish its 2017 Financial statements bulletin on 8 February 2018.
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Flambeau River Paper announcement

Flambeau River Paper announced the shutdown of its #3 paper machine to be effective immediately. #3 paper machine primarily produces commodity white papers and has been impacted by the ongoing and unprecedented rise in pulp costs coupled with an in-elasticity of commodity paper price. Flambeau River Papers’ #1 and #2 paper machines along with the Flambeau pulp mill, woodyard and utilities will continue to operate uninterrupted on a 24 hour, 7 day a week schedule. It is important to point out that PM 1 and PM 2 produce primarily specialty and value-added papers. The size and capabilities of these two paper machines, along with integrated nature of the mill, make them competitive and well suited for continued success in these markets. Over the last five years the mill has worked hard and qualified propriety specialty papers on these machines. Also manufactured on PM 1 and PM 2 are Flambeau’s other value-added papers such as Torchglow and Glacier Opaque branded papers, custom FDA compliant papers, fluorescent colored papers, wet-strength papers, saturating base stocks, deeply colored papers, watercolor papers, book papers, endleaf papers, lightweight offset papers, converting and drawing stocks. Paper grades historically produced on PM 3 such as Offset Papers and Laser Bond papers will not be part of the productive capacity of FRP as we proceed forward. We will work in concert with you and communicate the status of pending orders and shipments.
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BillerudKorsnäs is impacted by shortage of pulpwood due to wet and mild winter

Wet and mild weather in the fall and early winter has led to a shortage of pulpwood in late 2017 and early 2018. The root cause of the shortage of pulp wood is the unusually wet and mild start of the winter. Normal winters the ground freezes which allows for efficient forestry. At present, forestry machines cannot be used in the forests in certain areas. In addition, the possibility of driving on the forest road network is limited in some areas, which also reduces the flow of wood. The situation is the same in the Nordic countries, western Russia and the three Baltic states. BillerudKorsnäs has taken measures to minimize the effects of the lack of pulpwood and follows the situation on a daily basis. The measures taken are mainly mix changes in production and redistribution of flows to optimize the use of wood. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Boise® ASPEN® Awarded Green Seal® Certification for Sustainable Leadership

Boise Paper is pleased to announce that our ASPEN® line of multi-use recycled copy papers recently earned Green Seal® certification under its GS-7 Printing and Writing Paper Standard, one of the most rigorous environmental certifications in the industry. Green Seal’s thorough review and on-site audit has verified that ASPEN recycled papers conserve natural resources and protect human and environmental health while delivering the performance customers expect. Specifically, ASPEN recycled papers contain a significant percentage of post-consumer materials, are processed without chlorine, and contain minimal heavy metals. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Finnish white-collar workers threaten strike in paper industry

White-collar workers in Finland’s paper industry on Tuesday threatened to go on strike later this month in a dispute with employers over a new wage deal. About 3,000 clerical workers are due to begin a week-long strike on Jan. 17, trade union Pro said, adding that a refusal to work overtime is due to start already on Tuesday. The paper industry, including companies such as UPM (UPM.HE), Stora Enso (STERV.HE) and Metsa Group, accounted for 22 percent of all Finnish exports in 2016.
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Bain Capital Private Equity acquires Fedrigoni

Bain Capital Private Equity, a leading global private investment firm, announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Fedrigoni, a leading global producer of specialty papers and self-adhesive labels. The Fedrigoni family will retain a minority stake in the business. Established in 1888 and headquartered in Verona, Italy, Fedrigoni is internationally recognised for its high-quality product range and customer service. In 2017, the Company is expected to generate sales of approximately €1.1bn. It has manufacturing facilities in Italy, Spain and Brazil and a global distribution network, with more than 2,700 employees. Fedrigoni sells directly to its multinational customers including fashion houses and fine wine producers, through its own distribution network. Its products include special papers for luxury packaging and labels for the food and beverage and pharma industries. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Millar Western acquires Spruceland Millworks

Millar Western Forest Products Ltd., announced that it is continuing to execute its growth strategy through the acquisition of Spruceland Millworks Inc. Millar Western has acquired all shares of the company, its manufacturing operations in Acheson, Alberta and its woodlands assets. The transaction brings together two companies that have enjoyed a productive business relationship for decades. Spruceland Millworks is a value-added manufacturer and international distributor of high quality SPF wood products. Started in 1982 by Ben Sawatzky with a simple table saw and a second-hand forklift, the company today has grown to become a “go-to” supplier for its customers and trusted employer in the region. Its more than 100 highly-skilled employees operate a 130,000-square foot manufacturing facility in Acheson, Alberta. Click Read More below for additional information.
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U.S. slaps final duties on Canadian lumber

•The U.S. imposes final duties on Canadian softwood lumber, following failed talks to end the decades-long dispute between the two countries. •The U.S. Department of Commerce announces slightly lower initial duties for Canadian producers West Fraser Timber and Canfor Corp., with combined anti-dumping and countervailing duties of 23.6% and 20.5% respectively, and maintains rates for Resolute Forest Products. •Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross says the U.S. is confident the WTO, which may eventually rule on the dispute, would take its side; the DoC accuses Canada of unfairly subsidizing and dumping softwood lumber, a charge Canada denies.
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Certain Uncoated Groundwood Paper From Canada: Postponement of Preliminary Determination in the Less-Than-Fair-Value Investigation

On August 29, 2017, the Department of Commerce (the Department) initiated a less-than-fair value (LTFV) investigation of imports of certain uncoated groundwood paper from Canada.[1] Currently, the preliminary determination is due no later than January 16, 2018. On August 29, 2017, the Department of Commerce (the Department) initiated a less-than-fair value (LTFV) investigation of imports of certain uncoated groundwood paper from Canada.[1] Currently, the preliminary determination is due no later than January 16, 2018. Therefore, pursuant to section 733(c)(1)(A) of the Act, we are postponing the deadline for the preliminary determination by 50 days (i.e., 190 days after the date on which the investigation was initiated). As a result, the Department will issue its preliminary determination no later than March 7, 2018. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Norske Skog will shut down Ettamogah plant to help NSW and Victoria avoid summer blackouts during peak electricity demands

Albury’s Norske Skog paper mill will stop production during peak power demands to help avoid major summer blackouts. The Border business was among 14 industrial electricity users and producers who have signed contracts with the Australian Energy Market Operator to help avoid large-scale blackouts like those which hit South Australia last summer. Visy was also included but the company was unable to confirm if its Wodonga plants would be affected. Under the agreement, Norske Skog would shut down its paper machine and recycled fibre plant for a set time, likely to be between an hour and several hours, during peak demand so its electricity could be used elsewhere across the network. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Global Sawlog Prices Were Higher Throughout the World in the 3Q/17 and are Likely to Continue Upward Into 2018

Sawlog prices were up in most regions of the world in the 3Q/17. The price increases from the 2Q/17 were generally smaller in local currencies than in US dollar terms because of the weakening US dollar. In US dollar terms, quarter-to-quarter prices were up the most in Europe (+7.9%) and Oceania (+6.1%), while the upward price adjustments were more modest in North America (+2.8%) and Latin America (+2.2%). The Global Sawlog Price Index (GSPI) has gone up for three consecutive quarters to reach $75.69/m3 in the 3Q/17. The increase of 5.1% from the 2Q/17 was the biggest quarter-to-quarter jump since 2010. In addition, the GSPI is at a three-year high because of the recent strengthening of sawlog prices throughout the world. With the outlook for continued strong demand for lumber in key markets and higher consumption of sawlogs, it is likely that the price index will continue upward in the coming quarters. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Huhtamaki to further improve its competitiveness in China

Huhtamaki has completed the sale of the vacated manufacturing facility and related land usage rights in Guangzhou, China, as announced on April 21, 2017. Further, to conclude the consolidation of its foodservice packaging operations in South China, Huhtamaki closed down the manufacturing unit in Shandong, China, impacting app. 200 jobs. The product range manufactured in Shandong will in the future be sourced externally. In addition, to gain synergies from the recent acquisition of International Paper's foodservice packaging operations in China, comprising of manufacturing units in Tianjin and Shanghai, Huhtamaki has decided to consolidate its manufacturing operations in Tianjin into one unit. All manufacturing operations will be transferred to the unit acquired from IP. Employees currently working at the unit to be closed will be offered equivalent work opportunities at the continuing Tianjin unit. The transfer is expected to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2018. Click Read More below for additional information.
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ANDRITZ to supply three FibreFlow drum pulping systems to Dongguan Jianhui Paper, China

International technology Group ANDRITZ has received an order from Dongguan Jianhui Paper to install three FibreFlow drum pulping systems at the mill in Dongguan, Guangdong Province, China. Start-up is scheduled for the second quarter of 2018. The scope of supply comprises a FibreFlow drum pulping system for the 300 bdt/d stock preparation line for the top ply, which uses ONP (Old Newspaper Pulp) as raw material. Two additional FibreFlow drum pulping systems will be installed for production of the filler ply in two parallel lines that process MOW (Mixed Office Waste) with a total capacity of 1,400 bdt/d. Click Read More below for additional information.
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ANDRITZ to supply an FRX shredder to Stora Enso, Poland

International technology Group ANDRITZ has received an order from Stora Enso Narew Sp. z.o.o., Poland, to supply an FRX shredder and a metal separator to the mill in Ostrołęka, Poland. The FRX shredder, which is part of the ANDRITZ Franssons product line, will process rejects from the pulping processes of two existing board production lines. Start-up of the new shredder, which will process around 60 tons of rejects per day, is scheduled for January 2018. The shredder will be installed upstream of the reject treatment system, which is part of the 455,000 tons per year board production line for which ANDRITZ also delivered the complete OCC line including reject treatment. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Lollicup® USA, Inc. Brings Manufacturing Back to the U.S.

In 2017, Lollicup's Reifenhauser extruder, which produces plastic sheets from resin, became completely operational. By adding this machine, they were able to cut energy use by about 20 percent and improve production by 40 percent, allowing more products to be produced domestically. "The extruder is capable of making thicker, higher quality sheets of plastic," said Production Supervisor Ron Gonzales. "These sheets are used to form Karat® cups and lids." 2017 also saw the initial phases of a new manufacturing plant in Rockwall, Texas. The manufacturing plant is projected to be operational in 2018 and will allow Lollicup to produce more products, in addition to adding products to their Karat and Karat Earth™ lines. Click Read More below for additional information.
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KP Tissue Announces Retirement of CEO Mario Gosselin and Appointment of Dino Bianco

KP Tissue Inc. announced that Mr. Mario Gosselin has decided to retire from his position as Chief Executive Officer of KP Tissue and Kruger Products L.P. as of March 8, 2018, and that Mr. Dino Bianco will succeed him. Mr. Gosselin began his career with Kruger Inc. almost 40 years ago and has held a number of senior positions with the group in both Canada and the U.K. Mr. Gosselin was appointed CEO of KPLP in October 2012. "Although Mario has achieved many accomplishments throughout his career, he will be remembered above all for his leadership, the successful implementation of many capital projects including the TAD Project in Memphis, the seamless transition to a public company and growing KPLP's sales from $923 million in 2012 to $1.2 billion in 2016. On behalf of the Board and of all the employees, I would like to sincerely thank Mario for his exceptional contributions," said Mr. Joseph Kruger II, Chairman of Kruger Products. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Metsä Wood Calls for Collaboration in Timber Innovation

Modular construction, using timber as a key element, is a credible solution to fast and sustainable house building. However, Metsä Wood believes that more needs to be done in terms of sharing knowledge and innovation in wood construction to further advance the use of this material in mainstream construction. In order to help facilitate this process, Metsä Wood has launched its Open Source Wood initiative at www.opensourcewood.com. Metsä Wood's Executive Vice President, Esa Kaikkonen, explains: "Not enough knowledge about modular wood design and building is shared, so wood construction remains niche. There is plenty of innovation but it is difficult to find, so Open Source Wood is our solution. We believe that with open collaboration the industry can achieve significant growth." Click Read More below for additional information.
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Record High Prices for Softwood Lumber in North America and Rising Export Prices in Sweden, Finland and Russia as Wood Demand Picks up

Demand for imported softwood lumber to the US has fallen by six percent during the first nine months of 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016. In contrast, Chinese import volumes have been up 21% year-over-year. Demand for imported softwood lumber to the US has fallen by six percent during the first nine months of 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016. In contrast, Chinese import volumes have been up 21% year-over-year. The lumber trade in Europe has also picked up in 2017 with the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Austria, Denmark and Spain having increased imports the most so far in 2017. Countries in the Middle East and North Africa, also known as the MENA countries, have sharply reduced consumption of lumber this year, reports the Wood Resource Quarterly (WRQ). In the first eight months of 2017, Egypt and Algeria (the two biggest lumber consumers in the region) have decreased their imports by 24% and 39% respectively as compared to the first eight months of 2016. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Euro-Graph Publishes Monthly Statistics of the European Graphic Papers Industry

Total European shipments of graphic papers in October 2017 were UP 0.2% vs. 2016 and were down 0.8% year-to-date. Total European shipments of newsprint in October 2017 were down 1.5% vs. 2016 and were down 3.3% year-to-date. Total European shipments of sc-magazine in October 2017 were down 6.8% vs. 2016 and were down 0.8% year-to-date. Total European shipments of coated mechanical reels in October 2017 were UP 6.1% vs. 2016 and were down 0.7% year-to-date. Total European shipments of uncoated mechanical in October 2017 were UP 3.1% vs. 2016 and were UP 2.3% year-to-date. Total European shipments of coated woodfree in October 2017 were down 0.9% vs. 2016 and were UP 1.1% year-to-date. Total European shipments of uncoated woodfree in October 2017 were UP 1.1% vs. 2016 and were down 0.7% year-to-date. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Moorim USA Announces Price Increase

Effective January 2nd 2018, we will enact an across-the-board 5% price increase. This increase includes all Neo Star (and private labeled product): C2S gloss/silk text and cover, pro-digital C2S gloss/silk text and cover, KNIGHT C2S/C1S board grades, pro-digital KNIGHT C2S/C1S board grades, C1S label, and cast coated paper. We hope to continue our excellent relationship with our customers, and assure you our quality of service will reflect a similar increase.
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Resolute Acquires Full Ownership of Donohue Malbaie

Resolute Forest Products Inc. announced the closing of a transaction to acquire the 49 percent equity interest held by The New York Times Company in Donohue Malbaie Inc. for a cash purchase price in the amount of C$20 million. Resolute already owned 51 percent of the shares of Donohue Malbaie. Donohue Malbaie owns and operates a paper machine with an annual production capacity of 224,000 metric tons of newsprint in Clermont (Quebec). The Clermont operation, which employs 153 workers, also houses all the equipment that produces the thermomechanical pulp supplying the machine. With this transaction, Resolute becomes sole owner of the Clermont operation. Click Read More below for additional information.
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American Forest & Paper Association Releases November 2017 Printing-Writing Paper Report

According to the November 2017 Printing-Writing Monthly report from the American Forest & Paper Association, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased six percent in November compared to November 2016. Shipments of uncoated free sheet shipments remained flat while the remaining three major printing-writing grades declined year-over-year. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels increased less than one-half of one percent from October 2017. •November uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper shipments were flat year-over-year following year-over-year increases in two of the previous three months. •Shipments of coated free sheet (CFS) paper in November declined by a double-digit percentage for the second consecutive month. •Coated mechanical (CM) paper shipments declined year-over-year in November for the sixth consecutive month. •Exports of uncoated mechanical (UM) papers decreased 4% year-over-year in September, but reached second-highest level in the past 24 months. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Ahlstrom-Munksjö acquires land next to its Louveira plant in Brazil

Ahlstrom-Munksjö taking the first step towards a potential capacity expansion plan at its Louveira plant in Brazil. “Demand for filtration media in South America is expected to continue to grow in the coming years and we clearly foresee the need to increase capacity in the future to support the growing demand for filtration media in the region” states Fulvio Capussotti, Executive Vice President of the Business Area Filtration & Performance. “The acquisition of this land constitutes an important steps towards our overall ambition to further develop an industrial platform in South America that will enable us to continue to support our filtration customers in the region for the years to come” he adds. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Fortress Paper Sells Security Paper Business for CHF21.5 Million

Fortress Paper Ltd. reports that its wholly owned subsidiary, Fortress Security Papers AG ("FSP"), has entered into and completed a share purchase agreement with the Swiss National Bank ("SNB") and Orell Füssli Holding AG ("OF"), pursuant to which the Company sold the two legal entities representing their security paper products business comprised of all of the shares of its wholly owned subsidiaries, Landqart AG and Landqart Management and Services AG, to SNB and OF for an aggregate purchase price of CHF21,500,000 (approximately CDN$28 million). With the sale of Landqart, Fortress Paper no longer operates in the security paper products segment. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Lecta Announces Price Increase for North America

Please be advised that Lecta will increase its prices by 4%, for new orders with a delivery date on and after January 18th, 2018. This increase is applicable on rolls and sheets of: Condat Gloss, Silk, Matte, Digital (Mill and private brands); Garda Gloss and Silk; Creator Star and Silk. Also please note, the upcharge for 60lb Text will be increased to $3.00 cwt in conjunction with the general price increase. All other differentials remain the same.
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Catalyst Paper: Regarding CVD & AD Surcharge

In the near future, certain uncoated groundwood paper products imported into the United States from Canada may be subjected to U.S. countervailing (CVD) and/or anti-dumping (AD) duties. These duties arise from petitions made by North Pacific Paper Company (NORPAC), a U.S.-based pulp and paper manufacturer, to the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. International Trade Commission that allege Canada’s UGW paper exports are unfairly priced and/or that Canadian federal and provincial governments subsidize domestic producers – including Catalyst – thereby placing U.S. manufacturers of uncoated groundwood paper at an unfair disadvantage. I am writing to advise that Catalyst intends to implement price surcharges on our uncoated groundwood paper products we import into the USA that are subject to these CVD and AD duties. These surcharges will directly mirror the charges imposed on Catalyst by the U.S. Government. We will inform you of the level of Surcharge as soon as it becomes available. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Higher prices help offset impacts of softwood lumber duties

Canada’s lumber industry has been able to survive the impacts of preliminary duties, largely thanks to soaring lumber prices. While industry production will remain virtually flat this year, industry revenues are on pace to grow by 8 per cent, according to The Conference Board of Canada’s Canadian Industrial Outlook: Wood Products Manufacturing – Autumn 2017. “Lumber prices are at their highest levels in over a decade due to a perfect storm of factors, including supply constraints in B.C. from the wildfires this summer, and increased demand from a recovering U.S. housing market and rebuilding efforts in hurricane-affected regions,” said Michael Burt, Director, Industrial Trends, The Conference Board of Canada. “The surging lumber prices are providing a welcome relief from the costs of the lumber duties imposed by the U.S., but this is not likely to last.” Click Read More below for additional information.
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Hans Sohlström appointed President and CEO of Ahlstrom-Munksjö

The Board of Directors has appointed Hans Sohlström President and CEO of Ahlstrom-Munksjö, effective as of June 30, 2018, at the latest. Sohlström is currently the President and CEO of Ahlström Capital Group. Ahlstrom-Munksjö’s current President and CEO Jan Åström, (b. 1956), will retire from the position on June 30, 2018, at the latest. He has been the President and CEO of the company since its creation through the merger of Ahlstrom Corporation and Munksjö Oyj on April 1, 2017, and before that he was the President and CEO of Munksjö since 2008. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Appointment of bankruptcy trustee in Norske Skog companies

Oslo Byfogdembete (Oslo Bankruptcy Court) has on 19 December and 20 December 2017, appointed lawyer Tom Hugo Ottesen as bankruptcy trustee for the following companies: Norske Skogindustrier ASA Norske Treindustrier AS Norske Skog Holding AS Lysaker Invest AS Norske Skog Eiendom AS. In addition to the bankruptcy filing of Norske Skogindustrier ASA on 19 December 2017, the board of directors of Norske Treindustrier AS, Lysaker Invest AS, Norske Skog Eiendom AS and Norske Skog Holding AS have filed for bankruptcy at Oslo Byfogdembete (Oslo bankruptcy court) today, Wednesday 20 December 2017. The deadline for claims to the bankruptcy trustee is set to 23 January 2018. See the enclosed court order from Oslo Byfogdembete. Questions concerning the bankruptcy process and the bankruptcy estate must be addressed to the trustee.
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PaperWorks Industries, Inc. Announces Agreement on Comprehensive Deleveraging and Recapitalization

On December 20, 2017, PaperWorks Industries, Inc. and certain of its affiliates (collectively, the "Company") and five (5) holders of the Company's 9.500% Senior Secured Notes due 2019 (the "Notes"), holding approximately 87% of the outstanding Notes (the "Ad Hoc Group"), entered into a restructuring support agreement (the "RSA") regarding a comprehensive financial restructuring of the Company's debt and equity structure. Among other things, the proposed restructuring will reduce the Company's long term debt by approximately $275 million, which represents approximately 70% of the Company's funded indebtedness, through a repayment of the Company's existing ABL credit facility and an exchange of the Notes for new debt and new common equity in the reorganized Company. Under the RSA, the Company's pro forma capital structure will consist of a $115 million post-restructuring financing facility, inclusive of $70 million of new capital back stopped by the Ad Hoc Group. Click Read More below for additional information.
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UPM completes closure of paper machine 5 in Blandin by end of year

On October 24, UPM announced plans to permanently close paper machine 5 at UPM Blandin in Minnesota, United States in response to overcapacities in the North American paper market. All related processes have now been completed, and paper machine 5 will be permanently closed latest on 30 December 2017. The closure will reduce the annual capacity of coated magazine paper by approximately 128,000 tons. The number of positions affected is 148. Paper production related to paper machine 6 will continue at the Blandin site. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Ritrama Inc. 2018 Pricing Announcement

Due to industry wide inflationary conditions on nearly all raw material purchases, Ritrama Inc. is announcing a price increase averaging 5-7% for all film and paper products effective with shipments on or after January 1, 2018. The price increases being instituted are a reflection of the raw material inflation. We have been working closely with our suppliers both locally and globally to minimize the impact while maintaining both quality and constant supply. In addition, we have taken every precaution to control other operating costs in an effort to remain competitive in times of escalating costs. We will continue to drive productivity and cost reduction programs in order to support our mutual market competitiveness.
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Burgo Announces Price Increase

Due to continuous increase of manufacturing costs, effective with new orders entered for January production and warehouse orders with shipping on or after January 15th 2018, Burgo Group is increasing the transaction price of all Coated Freesheet Sheets grades by approximately 4%.
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Norske Skog’s operations continue as normal

Norske Skog's operations will continue to run as normal. For employees, suppliers and customers, there will be no change, it will be business as usual. The bankruptcy of Norske Skogindustrier ASA is financial and concerns mainly shareholders and bondholders of Norske Skogindustrier ASA. Oceanwood, the majority holder of the Senior Secured Notes (SSN), has started the process to enforce on the SSN collateral in Norske Skog AS. The ownership of Norske Skog AS, the parent company of all operating business units, will thus be transferred to new owners in an auction process. Oceanwood has entered into a joint venture (JV) with Aker in a bid to buy and operate Norske Skog AS. The JV is providing financial support to Norske Skog throughout the auction process. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Norske Skogindustrier ASA – decision to file for bankruptcy

The board of Directors of Norske Skogindustrier ASA has decided to file for bankruptcy at Oslo skifterett (Oslo bankruptcy court) today, Tuesday 19 December 2017. The board's decision is unanimous and is due to the fact that there is no longer a realistic opportunity to achieve a voluntary recapitalization solution for the Norske Skog group. The group's largest secured creditor, Oceanwood Capital Management Ltd (Oceanwood), has informed the board that it is not willing to support any such solution. The group's operational activities will continue in Norske Skog AS as normal with as little impact as possible from the bankruptcy proceedings of the listed Norske Skogindustrier ASA. The non-listed Norske Skog AS will be the new operating parent company of the Norske Skog group, and will continue the head office function that has been performed by Norske Skogindustrier ASA. The board and management of Norske Skogindustrier ASA have over an extended period worked hard to achieve a consensual recapitalization of the Norske Skog group and thereby avoid bankruptcy proceedings for the parent company. This work was well advanced and had broad support from the capital structure in October and November 2017. The board's decision to file for bankruptcy is therefore made with great disappointment that this goal was not achieved, said Christen Sveaas, Chairman of the board of Norske Skogindustrier ASA. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Verso Announces Price Increase

Effective with all new and existing orders with confirmed delivery dates of January 15, 2018 or later, Verso Corporation is increasing the transaction price of all Coated Economy Freesheet Sheets and Sheeter Roll grades by 4% to 6%. This includes, but is not limited to: Anthem Plus® sheets/sheeter rolls, Blazer Digital® sheets/sheeter rolls. The increase applies to all basis weights, bulks, finishes and related private label grades.
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Sappi North America Price Increase

Sappi North America announces a transactional price increase on new and unconfirmed orders that book with confirmed delivery dates on or after Monday, January 15, 2018 on the following products: A $2.00 per CWT US$/$2.56 per CWT CAD$ increase on: Flo Folio Sheets, Digital Sheets and Sheeter Rolls – all basis weights, all finishes, EuroArt Folio Sheets and Digital Sheets – all basis weights, all finishes. Standard differentials and upcharges apply. This price increase includes all private label programs.
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Resolute Forest Products Announces Price Increase

Please be advised that effective with shipments on or after February 1, 2018, Resolute’s White Paper grades will increase by US$35/short ton. Products impacted by this price increase include, but are not limited to, the following: Ecopaque Offset, Ecopaque Laser; Equal (Offset & Book); Alternative (Opaque, Offset & Offset+); ResoluteSelect 75; ResoluteSelect 70, 65; ResoluteBook 75, 70, 65, 60 & ResoluteBook 70 Cream; Alternative Book, Alternative Book Cream; ResoluteSert Plus. The increase will be applicable to all basis weights and finishes, and all up charges apply.
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Sean Krajnik appointed Vice President & General Manager, Biron Mill

Catalyst Paper today announced the appointment of Sean Krajnik as Vice President & General Manager of the Biron mill, effective January 2, 2018. Mr. Krajnik brings extensive experience in the pulp and paper industry to his new role. He has spent more than 20 years in the coated specialty papers segment working in progressively senior roles, including product development, quality management, technical services, and production and mill management. Most recently, Mr. Krajnik was the mill manager of a major Las Vegas-based tissue, paper and converting facility. Click Read More below for additional information.
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APAC Pulp and Paper Price Increase

Solenis, a leading global producer of specialty chemicals, will increase prices for process chemicals and alkaline sizing products for the pulp and paper industry. Process chemicals will increase up to 25 percent effective immediately or as customer contracts allow. Alkaline and AKD sizing products will increase by 15 to 25 percent. These price increases are necessary due to the increase in certain raw material costs combined with a tightening overall global supply chain.
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Domtar gives students, teachers books as early Christmas presents Domtar gives students, teachers books as early Christmas presents

Domtar Corp. and others this week handed out some early Christmas presents to local teachers and students in the form of 40,000 books. And the teachers seemed to really appreciate it. “This is great,” says Shyrese Johnson, a pre-kindergarten teacher at Windings Springs Elementary in Charlotte. “It’s absolutely wonderful,” agrees Melissa White, a third-grade teacher at Fort Mill Elementary School. Both teachers were busy taking free books off the shelves at Classroom Central, a nonprofit in Charlotte that provides schools supplies for teachers and students. Domtar and First Book, another nonprofit, donated 40,000 books to teachers and students in Mecklenburg and York counties as a way to promote literacy, says Heather Alverson Stowe, Domtar corporate responsibility manager. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Sappi confirms expansion plans for dissolving wood pulp (DWP) capacity

Sappi Limited, the South African based leading global supplier of dissolving wood pulp (DWP), speciality and packaging papers, printing (graphic) papers and biomaterials has confirmed plans and ongoing projects to significantly increase DWP capacity by 2020. In particular, Sappi has started preparatory work for the potential expansion of its Saiccor DWP Mill to ensure that the company would be in a position to increase the mill's capacity by up to 250,000tpa to meet strong projected demand growth. Building on the previously announced debottlenecking investments which will increase the Saiccor Mill capacity by 10,000tpa by the end of 2018, work has also started at increasing the chipping capacity and modernising the Saiccor Mill wood yard. The new equipment for the wood yard is scheduled to be delivered and installed at the end of 2018, with start-up planned for January 2019. The wood yard investments will result in cost, quality, environmental and efficiency benefits to the Saiccor Mill and is also a major step towards preparing the Saiccor Mill to expand by a further 250,000tpa. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Launch of sales process for Norske Skog AS

Norske Skog AS has appointed Evercore Partners International LLP (Evercore) to act as its financial adviser in connection with a sale of Norske Skog AS and its subsidiaries (the Norske Skog group's operating businesses) by way of a competitive sale process which will commence imminently. A range of bidders will be invited to participate in the competitive sale process. Norske Skog group's seven paper mills will continue as normal, and our customers, suppliers and other business partners will continue to receive high quality products and services from Norske Skog without interruption throughout the competitive sale process. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Twin Rivers Announces Price Increase on Publishing Papers

Please be advised that effective with shipments on or after January 15, 2018, Twin Rivers Paper Company will be implementing a US $40.00/ton price increase on our publishing papers, including: • Freesheet: Snowbrite Opaque, Custom Brite, Custom Plus, Custom Supreme, Twin Rivers Opaque, Twin Rivers Offset, Pharmopaque, Snowbrite Pharm, Pharm Brite 92 and all private label grades • Hybrid: Border Brite, Bridge Opaque, Bridge Supreme, Frontier Opaque, Frontier Supreme, Frabrite 76, all tablet/converting products and all private label grades.
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Cascades Fluff & Tuff (TM) wins the Tissue – Innovation Award at the 9th edition of the Pulp & Paper International Awards

Cascades Inc. is pleased to announce that it received the Tissue – Innovation Award for its Cascades Fluff & Tuff™ brand at the 9 th edition of the Pulp & Paper International Awards, which took place in Brussels on November 29. Cascades Tissue Group launched the national brand on March 14, 2017 . "We launched a line of toilet paper and paper towels that is among the softest and strongest on the market, while maintaining all of the green properties our products are known for. Our objective was simple, to offer consumers the comfort and performance they're looking for in a product, while also protecting the environment. We wanted our new and improved products to become the brand of choice for more and more families across the country, and we are achieving this goal. Convincing the industry of the innovative value of products and winning over consumers in a matter of months was a considerable but worthwhile challenge," said Jean Jobin , President and Chief Operating Officer of Cascades Tissue Group. Click Read More below for additional information.
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SCA invest in increased production of White-top kraftliner in Munksund papermill

SCA invests mSEK 196 in increased production of White-top kraftliner, packaging paper with a white surface, in the Munksund papermill in Piteå. Through this investment, the mill’s capacity to produce white kraftliner will increase from 150,000 tons to 200,000 tons per annum. The total production capacity will not increase as a result of the investment. The investment will affect the woodroom, where the pulpwood is debarked, and the pulpmill. The project will be finished and in operation in May 2019. "This is an important step in our development towards more value-added products in Munksund papermill", says Mats Nordlander, President Business Area Paper. "The demand is increasing for white kraftliner with excellent printing properties. Through this investment we increase the production of high-value products in Munksund and we can optimize the production of kraftliner in the Obbola papermill. Thereby we improve the competitiveness of both mills." Click Read More below for additional information.
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WestRock Announces Highlights of 2017 Investor Day

The Company presented information during Investor Day that highlighted: •WestRock has the scale, differentiated strategy and the capabilities to generate attractive long-term returns for investors. •The Company expects to increase adjusted EBITDA margins in its corrugated packaging and consumer packaging segments and generate significant cash flow over the next several years, and to deploy its capital to high-return internal projects and acquisitions, and return increasing capital to stockholders. •WestRock has the opportunity to expand its margins and deploy its capital to grow adjusted EBITDA from $2.3 billion in fiscal year 2017, to more than $4 billion in fiscal year 2022. WestRock reiterated its fiscal 2018 guidance for revenue of at least $16.3 billion, adjusted segment EBITDA of more than $2.8 billion and adjusted operating cash flow of at least $2.3 billion. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Verso Coporation Announces Price Increase on Uncoated Freesheet Grades

Effective with all new and existing orders with confirmed delivery dates of January 15, 2018 or later, Verso Corporation is increasing the transaction price of all Uncoated Freesheet Grades by $2.00/cwt US ($2.55/cwt CAD), including but not limited to: Ideal Offset; Ideal Reply Card. The increase applies to all basis weights, bulks, finishes and related private label grades.
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WTO Panel Upholds the Imposition of Antidumping and Countervailing Duties on Imports of Certain Coated Paper from Indonesia

Verso Corporation and Sappi North America praised the decision of a World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute settlement panel, which upheld the imposition of antidumping and countervailing duties on imports from Indonesia. The decision, released yesterday, confirms that the U.S. acted consistently with its WTO obligations when it imposed countervailing duties of 17.93 percent and antidumping duties of 20.13 percent. Yesterday's decision means that countervailing duties that were imposed in November 2010 on certain types of coated paper from Indonesia will remain in effect. The Department of Commerce and the International Trade Commission determined in 2016 that the market situation warranted the continuation of the duties for an additional 5-year period. The paper products covered by the petitions include certain types of coated paper that use sheet-fed presses with a GE brightness rating of 80 or higher and weighing up to 340 grams per square meter. The papers are used in commercial printing to create magazines, books, direct mailing, and corporate collateral. Click Read More below for additional information.
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USLC: ITC Finds Canadian Subsidies Harm U.S. Producers and Workers; Restores Fair Trade in the Softwood Lumber Industry

The United States International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that the U.S. lumber industry is materially injured by Canadian government subsidies of their softwood lumber industry. Voting 4-0 in favor of the U.S. lumber industry, the ITC ruling follows a U.S. Department of Commerce determination that imports of softwood lumber from Canada are sold in the United States at less than fair value and subsidized by the government of Canada. "The U.S. Lumber Coalition fully supports the enforcement of America's trade laws. The evidence presented to the ITC was clear - the massive subsidies that the Canadian government provides to its lumber industry and the dumping of lumber products into the U.S. market by Canadian companies cause real harm to U.S. producers and workers," said U.S. Lumber Coalition Co-Chair and Co-President of Pleasant River Lumber Company, Jason Brochu. "Now, with a level playing field, the U.S. lumber industry, and the 350,000 hardworking men and women who support it, can have the chance to compete fairly." Click Read More below for additional information.
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Reports: Appleton Coated to restart machine

Finally, some good news on Appleton Coated. One of the shuttered paper mill’s machines is reportedly starting back up on Monday, and the mill is recalling 50 workers. Representatives for Industrial Assets, the mill’s new owner, declined comment on the reported restart. But some workers and the regional head of the United Steelworkers union say some employees got recall notices on Tuesday. “It’s a temporary thing. We’re hopeful,” said Michael Bolton, the Menasha-based director of United Steelworkers District 2, which covers Wisconsin and Michigan. “We agreed to a 90-day temporary operation," he said. "The new owner said he was going to try and sell this or get it going again. He’s living up to what he said. It’s better than seeing it sit idle.” The 50 recalled workers will join 38 employees who had been previously retained for mill maintenance, for a total of 88. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Solenis to Increase Prices on all Wet Strength and Sizing Product Lines in North America

Solenis, a leading global producer of specialty chemicals, will increase prices by seven percent on most (AKD) sizing products and all wet strength products across the North America region, effective immediately or as customer contracts allow. The price increase is necessary due to the increase in certain raw material costs combined with a tightening overall global supply chain. “We are unable to absorb the impact of the increased costs that we are currently experiencing but we will continue to work in partnership with our customers to help mitigate the increases,” said Jose Santolaya, global product director, Functional Chemicals, Pulp and Paper. Click Read More below for additional information.
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French Paper Announces Price Increase

Due to recent cost changes and market conditions French Paper is announcing our first price increase since 3-3-14, over three and a half years. This increase consists of $5/cwt for Glo-Tone and $4/cwt across all other grades, with equivalent changes made among envelope items. All changes will apply to orders placed after December 15th. Along with these pricing changes we have begun the discontinuation of our Mod-Tone grade and will sell remaining items as inventory is available.
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Sappi expands its speciality and packaging paper capacity; will acquire the speciality paper business of Cham Paper Group Holding AG (CPG)

The transaction includes the acquisition of CPG’s Carmignano and Condino Mills in Italy, its digital imaging business located in Cham, Switzerland as well as all brands and know-how. It will be funded through internal cash resources. The transaction is conditional on the approval from certain competition authorities. We expect the acquisition to be completed during the first calendar quarter of 2018. The main benefits of the acquisition include: *Supports Sappi’s diversification strategy and 2020vision to grow in higher margin growth segments. Strengthens Sappi Europe’s speciality and packaging papers footprint and skills; adds 160,000 tons of speciality paper to our capacity. *Increases Sappi’s relevance in speciality papers, opening up new customers and markets to Sappi’s existing products and generating economies of scale and synergies. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Mactac Price Increase Notification

Mactac continues to focus on delivering premium quality products at competitive prices. The recent inflationary environment impacting our markets has brought about challenges and volatility related to raw material pricing, freight, and the overall availability of key components. We have worked diligently with our suppliers to ensure a reliable supply of materials allowing us to continue to provide outstanding service in the pressure sensitive market. Having already absorbed a significant level of price increases along with indications of continued tightness of supply and price escalation, we find it necessary to recover part of these increased costs with a 5% increase on all Sheet and Graphic products effective on all orders placed beginning January 15, 2018 shipping within our standard published lead-times. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Canfor Pulp Announces Temporary Production Outage at Northwood

Canfor Pulp Products Inc. announced that it has taken a temporary and unscheduled outage on one production line at its Northwood Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft (“NBSK”) Pulp mill located in Prince George, British Columbia (“BC”), as a result of a tube leak in the number five recovery boiler. Canfor Pulp anticipates the number five recovery boiler to be down for approximately two weeks, and is currently projecting 15,000 tonnes of reduced NBSK pulp production during the fourth quarter 2017, as well as higher associated maintenance costs and lower projected shipment volumes. To mitigate the impact of the incident, Canfor Pulp is continuing to operate the second production line at the Pulp mill and will advance certain mill maintenance activities previously scheduled to be performed in the first quarter of 2018. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Smurfit Kappa has won two prestigious PPI awards, demonstrating its leadership in the global paper industry.

Smurfit Kappa operations from both sides of the Atlantic were lauded with the company’s Zülpich Paper Mill in Germany winning the ‘Resilience – Managing Risk’ award and the Cali Paper Mill in Colombia taking the prize for ‘Bringing Paper to Life – Innovative Printing & Writing Campaign of the Year’. The Zülpich Mill, which was established in 1873, has an exemplary record in health and safety and a robust risk management strategy. Speaking about the award, Christian Ludwig, Managing Director, said: “We have always had the full support of the Group to build up our resilience strategy to the standard is at today and we are encouraged to take an innovative approach to finding solutions. The Cali Paper Mill certainly delivered on the brief of ‘Bringing Paper to Life’ with its CartoPrint school paper display. The vibrant appearance of the product, which was created in a collaboration with the Packaging Division, was inspired by its sustainable forestry origins and the ongoing work to preserve biodiversity that the company carries out. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Brazil’s Suzano to buy controlling stake in Facepa paper factory

Brazil’s Suzano Papel e Celulos closed a deal to acquire a majority stake in Amazonian paper factory Facepa for 310 million reais ($95 million), the wood pulp and paper maker said on Monday in a securities filing. Suzano said it had agreed to buy 92.84 percent of total shares and 99.99 percent of common shares in the company, which manufactures paper towels, napkins, diapers and tissue in factories in Belem and Fortaleza with total capacity of 50,000 tonnes per year. The price is subject to adjustments, Suzano said in the filing.
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Domtar Specialty Papers – Important Pricing Information

Please be advised, effective with shipments as of January 1, 2018, Domtar Specialty Papers pricing will increase by $2.50/cwt. USD on bleached and unbleached Food Packaging, Medical Packaging, Industrial Grades, Coating Base and Release Paper Products. We pledge to continue to earn your business by providing quality products and reliable service while investing in the future through innovation.
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Glatfelter carbonless price increase

Due to large increases in key input material costs, including over a two-fold increase in colorformers to ensure an uninterrupted supply, that cannot be offset by our on-going internal continuous improvements, cost reductions, and operating excellence efforts, Glatfelter is announcing a price increase for carbonless roll products, carbonless sheet products and security papers sold in our United States and Canadian markets. The increase will be effective with shipments on or after January 15, 2018. The increase will be 6% for the following items: All Glatfelter Carbonless Roll products; Carbonless Roll Accessories (CF and CB Sprays); Defensa® Security CB products; All Glatfelter Carbonless Sheet Products; Fan-Apart Adhesive. The increase will be $4.00/cwt for the following item: Defensa® Basic. The increase will be $5.00/cwt for the following items: Defensa® Premium Defensa® Design; Defensa® Security Gate Defensa® True. All current standard differentials and upcharges remain in effect.
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Statement From New Brunswick Lumber Producers (NBLP)

The Province of New Brunswick announced its plan regarding sawmills impacted by softwood lumber duties on shipments to the United States. A dedicated effort on this important file is crucial to the survival of New Brunswick’s forest products sector as we know it today. Sawmills are the lifeblood of many rural communities. Hundreds of New Brunswick woodlot owners and wood producers depend on these sawmills. A successful sawmill is the vital source of wood chips to the value chain of products made throughout New Brunswick – from particleboard in St. Stephen to tissue in Dieppe, pulp in Edmundston and paper in Saint John. Thousands of New Brunswick jobs and local suppliers depend on this sector which impacts more communities than any other industry in the province. Maintaining New Brunswick’s historic 35-year exclusion requires the unity and support of all political parties. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Sappi, ACTEGA Terra and Koenig & Bauer join forces for calendar project

Pushing the boundaries in sports and print: Sappi’s Algro Design® Card forms basis for new 2018 photo calendar. “Move X-treme. Discover your possibilities” – This is the umbrella theme under which ACTEGA Terra, Koenig & Bauer and Sappi have continued their successful joint calendar project over the last few years. The new 2018 calendar, hot off the press, depicts athletes who push themselves to their limits, whether in speed skating, white water kayaking or motocross. Steely resolve and perfect preparation can lead to outstanding sporting success. The rewards: strong emotions, a great deal of public interest and the satisfaction of having accomplished something extraordinary. These are reactions similar to those experienced by three companies from the worlds of speciality papers, quality printing and overprint varnishes for high-quality finishing as they produce their annual calendar. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Holmen sells forest properties

Holmen has signed an agreement to sell forest properties in north-west Jämtland, Sweden, for SEK 100 million. The sale is expected to be completed in January 2018. The Group’s earnings will be positively impacted by just over SEK 70 million in the first quarter of 2018 since the sale price exceeds the carrying amount according to IAS 41. With holdings of over 1 million hectares of productive forest land, Holmen is one of Sweden’s largest forest owners. “This forest land is located far from our production facilities and has significant other values than forestry. We intend to reinvest the sales proceeds in forest located closer to our own production facilities,” says Henrik Sjölund, President and CEO of Holmen. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Rottneros introduces new organisation for increased market and productivity focus

As part of optimising the Rottneros Group, a new organisation is introduced with a group-wide sales organisation and a site manager for each mill. At the same time, a group-wide safety function is established, which becomes part of the Human Resource Department. The purpose of the new organisation is to create an increased focus within each sub-area. Through the new organisation, the mills can focus wholeheartedly on productivity, quality, environment, costs and completion of Agenda 500. The common safety function also means that we will be able to get even more out of our high-priority safety work in the future, while it can be conducted in an efficient way, comments Lennart Eberleh, President and CEO of Rottneros. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Ahlstrom-Munksjö launches Trinitex® Advance W3000 for high efficiency gas turbine filtration

Ahlstrom-Munksjö announces the launch of Ahlstrom-Munksjö Trinitex® Advance W3000, a unique filtration media specifically designed for pulse jet gas turbine applications. “Trinitex® Advance W3000 has the ability to combine EPA (Efficiency Particulate Air) efficiencies, whilst delivering highest protection of the gas turbine in all demanding conditions, especially humid or industrial environments” says Cedric Vallet, Product Manager at Ahlstrom Munksjo. “ Trinitex® Advance W3000 delivers high particulate removal efficiency, reducing corrosion and fouling, thus minimizing maintenance and unplanned shut downs. It also delivers higher efficiency at a low level of pressure drop, helping to minimize energy consumption. Trinitex® Advance W3000 enables extended performance in all challenging environments, increasing filter lifetime and reducing frequency for filter change” he adds. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Euro-Graph Publishes Monthly Statistics for the European Graphic Papers Industry

Total European shipments of Graphic Papers were down 4.2% in September vs. September 2016 and are down 0.9% year-to-date. Total European shipments of Newsprint were down 5.5% in September vs. September 2016 and are down 3.7% year-to-date. Total European shipments of SC-Magazine were down 11.1% in September vs. September 2016 and are flat year-to-date. Total European shipments of Coated Mechanical Reels were down 4.6% in September vs. September 2016 and are down 1.4% year-to-date. Total European shipments of Uncoated Mechanical were UP 4.2% in September vs. September 2016 and are UP 2.3% year-to-date. Total European shipments of Coated Woodfree were down 1.4% in September vs. September 2016 and are UP 1.3% year-to-date. Total European shipments of Uncoated Woodfree were down 3.9% in September vs. September 2016 and are down 0.9% year-to-date. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Innovation tops the agenda at European Paper Week, as industry moves forward on the bioeconomy

The 19th edition of European Paper Week will mark CEPI’s 25th anniversary and takes place in the background of industry’s transformation towards a low-carbon, circular bioeconomy. As part of this year’s theme, attendees are invited to look forward and ‘Sense the Future’ by experiencing through the five senses the innovative, bio-based potential of the industry. “Industry transformation is gaining pace. This year’s European Paper Week provides an occasion to look forward at how we can, as the leading renewable and recyclable material industry, unleash the full potential of a circular bioeconomy,” says Sylvain Lhôte, Director General at the Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI). As part of the industry’s ambition to lead Europe’s bioeconomy transformation, this year’s event will play host to the inaugural Europe-only edition of the Blue Sky Young Researchers and Innovation Awards, where eight accomplished researchers will make the case for their industry-changing ideas. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Norske Skog: Update on recapitalization process

Funds managed by Oceanwood Capital Management and Aker Capital AS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Aker ASA, have today issued a joint press release stating the intention to form a new company (Bidco), which will bid in an auction process to ensure that there is a strong new owner of Norske Skog's paper mills. The board of directors of Norske Skogindustrier ASA is pleased that Aker, with its strong industrial knowledge and financial expertise, has taken a role together with Oceanwood in the recapitalization of the Norske Skog group. The board of directors of Norske Skogindustrier ASA will continue to safeguard the interest of all its stakeholders through the recapitalization process. As part thereof, the Norske Skog group's seven paper mills will continue as normal, and our customers, suppliers and other business partners will continue to receive high quality products and the best service from Norske Skog without interruption through the remainder of the recapitalization process. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Stora Enso announces intent to acquire forest assets in conjunction with planned structural changes in Bergvik Skog AB

Shareholders representing 98% of the owners in Bergvik Skog AB, a Swedish forest holding company, have agreed to initiate discussions, based on a non-binding letter of intent, aiming at structural changes in Bergvik Skog Group. These shareholders are Stora Enso, Länsförsäkringar, FAM, BillerudKorsnäs, Kåpan Pension, Tredje AP-fonden, Persson Invest, Karl Hedin AB and Tham Invest. “The wood supply agreement with Bergvik Skog, established 15 years ago, expires next year. Together with our partners, we have had a successful journey which now comes to an end. The planned transaction is a natural next step for us, as we strongly believe in the bioeconomy and want to secure our competitive raw material supply in the long term. We will seek support from the remaining 2% outstanding shareholders as well as all other relevant stakeholders”, says Karl-Henrik Sundström, CEO of Stora Enso. Bergvik Skog’s Swedish forest assets are owned by its subsidiaries Bergvik Väst AB and Bergvik Öst AB, representing approximately 83% and 17% respectively. Click Read More below for additional information.
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BillerudKorsnäs intends to acquire forest assets

BillerudKorsnäs has signed a letter of intent to acquire Bergvik Skog Öst AB, owned by Bergvik Skog AB. Bergvik Skog Öst AB comprises approximately 350,000 hectares of forest land in Sweden. The transaction will secure parts of BillerudKorsnäs’ wood supply, and improve the possibilities to manage the mix of internal and external wood flows in order to increase efficiency. Bergvik Skog AB was formed in 2004 through an acquisition of the Swedish forest holdings of Korsnäs and Stora Enso. The biological assets of Korsnäs represented in 2004 approximately 17% (Bergvik Skog Öst AB) and the Stora Enso assets approximately 83% (Bergvik Skog Väst AB). As part of the transaction in 2004, long term wood supply agreements were agreed between Bergvik Skog AB and Korsnäs and Stora Enso. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Norske Skog: Performance impacted by currency

Norske Skog's gross operating earnings (EBITDA) in the third quarter 2017 were NOK 143 million, a decrease from NOK 190 million in the second quarter 2017. Gross operating earnings declined despite an increase in sales volume in Europe due to NOK appreciation, and less domestic demand in Australasia resulted in more low-margin export sales. Operating earnings in the third quarter was NOK 73 million compared to negative operating earnings of NOK 52 million in the second quarter of 2017. Net loss in the third quarter was NOK 9 million compared to a net loss of NOK 546 million in the second quarter 2017, mainly due to non-cash currency effects on debt and changes in the valuation of power contracts. Cash flow from operations declined to a negative NOK 162 million in the quarter from a positive NOK 187 million in the second quarter. Net interest-bearing debt increased by NOK 459 million to NOK 7 038 million in the third quarter, reflecting a negative cash flow for the period and unpaid interest costs related to the ongoing recapitalization process. At the end of the third quarter, the group had a negative book equity of NOK 689 million. As part of the ongoing recapitalization process, the board has decided not to pay interest on the group's outstanding debt. The cash balance at the end of the third quarter was NOK 426 million and is sufficient to support the operations until a recapitalization solution takes place. Norske Skog's board and administration continue discussions with the creditors to launch as soon as possible a new and broadly supported offer for converting debt to equity and a new bond. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Stora Enso to divest the Baienfurt sheeting centre

Stora Enso has signed an agreement to divest its sheeting centre business in Baienfurt, Germany to Pyroll, a Finnish converting firm. The sheeting centre operations started in April 2009 and is 100% owned by Stora Enso. This divestment supports Stora Enso’s growth strategy for its consumer board business, where the focus is to generate value to customers by being the global benchmark in high quality virgin fibre carton board. Running sheeting centre operations is not part of Stora Enso’s core business. The new owner has sheeting operations as its core and is in a better position to further develop Baienfurt. Stora Enso will remain a key customer to the Baienfurt sheeting centre. Click Read More below for additional information.
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American Forest & Paper Association Releases October 2017 Printing-Writing Paper Report

According to the October 2017 Printing-Writing Monthly report from the American Forest & Paper Association, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased seven percent in October compared to October 2016. Shipments of uncoated free sheet managed a year-over-year increase but this was more than offset by decreases in the remaining three major printing-writing grades. U.S. purchases of printing-writing papers also decreased, down nine percent in October. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels decreased nine percent from September 2017. •October uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper shipments increased year-over-year for the second time this year. Imports of UFS decreased by 12 percent year-over-year in September – the fourth consecutive decrease of 12 percent or more. Meanwhile, exports of UFS papers continue to climb, up 26 percent year-over-year in September, the fifth consecutive increase of 17 percent or higher. •Recent mill shuts leave coated free sheet (CFS) paper shipments down year-over-year. This is a significant change from last month’s peak for the year, as two recent mill shuts factor in to the decline this month. U.S. imports of CFS papers decreased 17 percent year-over-year in September, the third consecutive year-over-year decline. Meanwhile, exports of CFS papers increased 4 percent year-over-year in September, the seventh increase in the past nine months. •Coated mechanical (CM) paper shipments declined year-over-year in October for the fifth consecutive month. Imports of CM increased in September, up 23 percent compared to September 2016. Exports of CM decreased, down 9 percent in September to 24,200 tons – the lowest level in more than five years. •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 13 percent year-over-year in September and exports of UM decreased 4 percent year-over-year in September.
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Rayonier Advanced Materials Completes Acquisition of Tembec

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. announced that it has completed the acquisition of Tembec Inc., combining two complementary high purity cellulose businesses and diversifying its product offerings with integrated forest products, paper, paperboard and newsprint businesses. The combined company, which will operate under the name Rayonier Advanced Materials, will be a stronger, more diversified global leader in its core businesses with an expanded international footprint that further positions it to serve the larger customer base with the highest quality products and services. In addition, the combined company offers enhanced new product development capabilities, a broader and more versatile asset base, and the financial strength to invest back into its businesses for continued growth. “This acquisition advances our strategic growth objectives and provides an accretive and attractive value proposition for our shareholders by more than doubling our revenues, diversifying our product offering in high purity cellulose and allowing us to expand into new adjacent businesses,” said Paul Boynton, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Rayonier Advanced Materials. “Rayonier Advanced Materials and Tembec are not only a good strategic fit, but we are also an excellent cultural fit. We are excited to welcome the Tembec employees to Rayonier Advanced Materials as we continue to execute on our four strategic pillars of growth.”
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Glatfelter Announces Price Increase on Tag/Index Products in the US Market

Glatfelter is announcing a price increase for the listed grades and product lines sold in our United States market. The increase will be effective with shipments on or after January 1, 2018. The increase will be $2/cwt for the following items: Sealer Envelope Worthington Index; Tiffin Tag (White & Manila) Index Card; Shawnee Vellum Bristol. The increase will be $3/cwt for the following items: Tiffin Tag (Colors) File Folder. All current standard differentials and upcharges remain in effect.
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Sappi North America Price Increase on Packaging/Specialty Products

Sappi North America announces a US$3.00 per CWT transactional price increase on new and unconfirmed orders that book with confirmed delivery dates on or after Monday, January 1, 2018 on the following packaging and specialty products: • Fusion Topliner • Parade Prima • Algro Design • Algro Finess • Algro Fin • Algro Teepack • Algro Kraft Y • Algro Sol • Leine Kraft • Leine Mühle • Leine Silk. Standard differentials and upcharges apply. The price increase includes all basis weights and finishes.
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Sappi Europe to increase prices on Woodfree grades by 6-8% from January 1st 2018

Due to continuing input cost increases and unsustainable profit levels, Sappi is forced to continue passing on this cost inflation by increasing its Woodfree grades prices by 6-8% effective on deliveries from January 1st 2018 for all European markets. This follows previous announcements made for its LWC and MWC grades. Despite strong order books margins continue to be depressed by this severe input cost inflation. Sappi’s sales representatives will be in touch with their customers to agree on the specifics over the following weeks.
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Lecta’s New GardaPremium Natural Catalogue

GardaPremium Natural is a 2 side coated woodfree silk paper with a smooth surface and a natural shade. It offers good thickness, extraordinary runnability, high stiffness and good resistance to cracking on fold, in addition to high opacity. These characteristics guarantee excellent print results for any type of project, as with all of Lecta's premium coated papers. With the new GardaPremium Natural catalogue, you can directly observe the paper's natural white shade, obtained without the addition of optical brighteners. This neutral tone is perfect for enhancing color as well as black-and-white images, highlighting every detail. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Sappi Europe to increase prices on Woodfree grades by 6-8% from January 1st 2018

Due to continuing input cost increases and unsustainable profit levels, Sappi is forced to continue passing on this cost inflation by increasing its Woodfree grades prices by 6-8% effective on deliveries from January 1st 2018 for all European markets. This follows previous announcements made for its LWC and MWC grades. Despite strong order books margins continue to be depressed by this severe input cost inflation. Sappi’s sales representatives will be in touch with their customers to agree on the specifics over the following weeks.
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Domtar’s Kingsport, Tennessee, mill awarded for million-hour safety mark

Montreal-based papermaker Domtar has announced its Kingsport, Tennessee, paper mill has been awarded the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA) Governor’s Award of Excellence for Workplace Safety. The safety award recognizes outstanding achievement in employer-employee safety programs for the prevention of workplace injury. As part of its qualification criteria, Domtar’s Kingsport mill had to accumulate 1 million hours worked without a lost-time or restricted-duty incident. While this is the first public recognition for the Kingsport mill, Bill MacPherson, manager of the mill, says it has achieved the 1-million-hour milestone several times in the past. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Verso Expands GlazeArmor™ Family to Include New Natural Kraft Lightweight Oil and Grease Resistant Papers

"Foodservice packaging converters and end users are seeking natural kraft OGR paper options that offer the right combination of quality, performance and run-to-run consistency," said Mike Weinhold, Verso President of Graphic Papers. "Our GlazeArmor™ family of OGR papers excels in these critical areas, and we will deliver these solutions with the same level of highly personalized customer service, experienced technical resources, and overall attention to detail that customers have come to expect from Verso." GlazeArmor™ natural kraft options are an exciting addition to the broader portfolio of Verso's machine-glazed laminating and converting papers, which are relied upon by flexible packaging converters worldwide. Featuring OGR levels ranging from Kit 5 to as high as Kit 12, GlazeArmor™ NK OGR and GlazeArmor™ NK Micro are Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)-free and are designed to work well in low to high oil and grease end uses. These OGR papers offer excellent runnability and converting performance, both key performance requirements for end-use applications such as sandwich and deli wraps, foodservice liners, microwave popcorn bags and laminated food pouches. Click Read More below for additional information.
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New Product Category Rules Issued for Paper Products

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA), in collaboration with the Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) and FPInnovations issued Product Category Rules (PCR) for Market Pulp, Paper and Paperboard, Containerboard and Tissue products manufactured in North America. The PCR provides rules and requirements for conducting paper product life cycle assessment (LCA) reports as well as developing Type III Environmental Product Declarations that communicate the environmental footprint of products to customers. The PCR development process included the participation of a broad stakeholder group including manufacturers, trade associations, government agencies, non-government organizations, retail representatives, independent parties, academia and other Environmental Product Declarations program operators. “This PCR has been approved by an independent peer review panel of recognized LCA experts,” said Debbie Steckel, Executive Director of the American Center for Life Cycle Assessment. “It conforms to the requirements of ISO International Standards, providing consistent and transparent environmental evaluation standards with the highest degree of credibility.” Click Read More below for additional information.
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Part of Camas paper mill to shut down, between 280 and 300 jobs lost

Georgia-Pacific on Tuesday announced it plans to shut down several operations at its Camas mill and cut up to 300 jobs. Between 120 and 140 jobs will remain at the mill, which opened in 1885 and in the 1980s employed around 2,400. “The paper mill is the reason Camas exists,” said Peter Capell, city administrator. “The biggest concern we have about this is the people. They have mortgages, college payments, retirement. It’s something I wouldn’t wish on anybody.” The Atlanta, Ga.-based company and subsidiary of Koch Industries said the cuts stem from dives in demand for communications paper, mainly used in offices for printers, copiers and the like. “It’s definitely not a reflection of the employees, they have worked very hard and taken a lot of pride in running these assets and keeping them going, but it’s just a situation where it’s a declining marketplace,” said spokeswoman Kristi Ward. “People just aren’t using as much office paper as they used to.” Click Read More below for additional information.
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Sappi delivers robust full year and 4th quarter results

Sappi Chief Executive Officer Steve Binnie, commenting on the group’s performance, said: “Sappi has delivered another strong set of results with profits up 6% year-on-year. I am very pleased with the growth of the dissolving wood pulp (DWP) and speciality packaging businesses. Furthermore our initiatives to reduce variable costs and the benefits of lower interest charges were able to help mitigate higher paper pulp prices and a stronger Rand/Dollar exchange rate during the reporting period. “Capital expenditure in 2018 is expected to increase to US$450 million as we continue the conversions in both Europe and North America, complete the Saiccor and Ngodwana debottlenecking and start the upgrade of the Saiccor wood-yard. The increase in expansionary capital spending during 2018 is focused on higher margin growth segments including dissolving wood pulp and speciality packaging. This will position us for stronger profitability from 2019 onwards.” Click Read More below for additional information.
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Appvion sorts out job loss details in Appleton

Appvion and United Steelworkers Union representatives met Wednesday to begin discussing details of the paper company’s consolidation plan that will eliminate 200 jobs in Appleton. That number represents about one-quarter of Appvion’s local 800-employee workforce, and is part of a larger trend that worries paper industry watchers. Appvion's layoffs were first announced in a Nov. 9 story. It followed the company's filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in October. “The first layoffs will occur in January and would continue as we transition most of our carbonless coating and converting operations to the Roaring Spring Mill (in Pennsylvania) during 2018," said spokesman Bill Van Den Brandt. "We project that we will complete the transition process in third quarter 2018.” Click Read More below for additional information.
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Monadnock Paper Mills Announces Price Increase for East/Central Territory Effective 12/11/17

Please be advised that Monadnock Paper Mills, Inc. is raising list prices effective December 11, 2017. Pricing on orders placed prior to today’s date will not change regardless of ship date. Orders placed after today’s date and shipped prior to December 11, 2017 will receive today’s price. All existing contract pricing will be reviewed within the terms of the contract. The price increase will be $3/cwt on our text and cover grades as well as Envi PC80 Folding Box Board.
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Sappi North America Invests $5.94 Million in Cloquet, Minn. Mill

Sappi North America, a leading producer and supplier of diversified paper and packaging products, today announced a $5.94 million capital investment in its Cloquet, Minn. mill to replace the headbox on Paper Machine 12 (PM12). This investment enabled Sappi to maintain its capacity by adding a state-of-the-art, dilution profiled headbox that produces excellent basis weight profiles. A headbox is an integral part of the paper machine responsible for spreading the pulp fibers evenly to form the sheet. "This investment shows Sappi's unwavering commitment to its graphic papers and packaging customers," said Mark Gardner, President and CEO, Sappi North America. "The new headbox will ensure that we're fulfilling orders to the highest quality standards that Sappi's customers have come to expect. This project will not only improve upon our longstanding history with the graphic papers market, but also support our growing paper-based packaging business." Click Read More below for additional information.
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Tembec Announces Preliminary Results of Consideration Elections in Connection with Transaction

Pursuant to the terms of the Transaction, Tembec shareholders had the right to elect to receive either C$4.75 in cash or 0.2542 shares of Rayonier AM common stock per Tembec Share, subject to proration so that approximately 67% of the aggregate consideration is paid in cash and approximately 33% is paid in Rayonier AM common stock. The results of the elections received prior to the election deadline of 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time) on November 9, 2017 are as follows: •Shareholders representing 1,644,879 Tembec Shares elected to receive the Per Share Cash Amount; •Shareholders representing 67,878,518 Tembec Shares elected to receive the Per Share Stock Consideration; and •Shareholders representing 30,476,603 Tembec Shares did not make an election. Since the aggregate number of Tembec Shares in respect of which registered Tembec shareholders have elected to receive the Per Share Cash Amount is less than the Cash Consideration Number (as defined in the plan of arrangement attached to the amending agreement dated as of July 23, 2017 by and between Rayonier AM and Tembec), holders of Tembec Shares who elected to receive the Per Share Stock Consideration will be subject to proration in the manner described in Tembec's management information circular dated June 13, 2017 (the "Circular"). Click Read More below for additional information.
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Verso Corporation Reports Third Quarter 2017 Financial Results

Comparison of Three Months Ended September 30, 2017 to Three Months Ended September 30, 2016: • Net sales for the third quarter of 2017 decreased by $54 million compared to the third 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, partially offset by a 1% increase in price. • Gross margin, excluding depreciation, amortization, and depletion expenses, increased from 4.9% of net sales in the third quarter of 2016 to 11.1% in the third quarter of 2017. Gross margin in the third quarter of 2016 was negatively impacted by work-in-process and inventory fair value adjustments associated with fresh-start accounting of $41 million. Without these fresh-start accounting adjustments, gross margin percentage would have been relatively flat quarter over quarter. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Arctic Paper Group After 3rd Quarter of 2017: Results Influenced by Further Increase in Pulp Prices

In the 3rd quarter of 2017 the Arctic Paper Group generated sales revenue of nearly PLN 735.9m. EBITDA was PLN 70.8m and operating profit PLN 38.5m. The Group’s net profit on continuing operations in Q3 2017 was PLN 25.6m. The weaker results of Arctic Paper in the 3rd quarter were due primarily to the effect of a further increase in pulp prices which has not been fully offset yet by higher paper prices. The result was also affected by the planned stoppage at the Arctic Paper Kostrzyn plant for 12 days in July of this year, connected with an investment to increase the production efficiency at that plant. Per Skoglund, CEO of Arctic Paper, commented: “The decline in profit is mainly due to continued high pulp prices, which we will not be able to fully compensate for by price increases during 2017. On top of that, a planned investment stoppage in Arctic Paper Kostrzyn affected sales and profit during the period. The investment in increased production efficiency will have a future positive impact and strengthen our ability to serve our customers in a competitive way.” Click Read More below for additional information.
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Rottneros invests another 117 SEKm within the framework of Agenda 500

As a next step in the capacity development of Rottneros Mill, Rottneros’ Board has granted further investments in the CTMP line. The investment, CTMP Step 2, increases capacity by approximately 18,000 tonnes per year and is expected to be operational in the fall of 2018. The investment follows the strategic development plan Agenda 500, where a first capacity-enhancing investment in the CTMP line was made in 2016. Within Agenda 500, Rottneros Mill has put into operation a bio mass boiler in the third quarter of 2017 that replaces an oil-based boiler and made the mill practically fossil-free. The expansion of the purification plant is an ongoing investment that is expected to be put into operation in 2018. The Rottneros Mill has a strong position as a supplier of high yield pulp. With increased capacity, we ensure that Rottneros can be a reliable supplier of CTMP and an attractive partner for our customers, says Lennart Eberleh, President and CEO of Rottneros AB. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Appvion to Consolidate Carbonless Paper Manufacturing Operations

Appvion, Inc. announced plans to consolidate the majority of the carbonless paper coating and rewinding operations currently performed at its plant in Appleton, Wisconsin, to its integrated pulp and paper mill in Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania, and relocate the Appleton Plant’s sheeting operations to an Appvion-operated facility near the mill. The company expects the transition will begin in January and be completed in the third quarter of 2018. Consolidating Appvion’s carbonless paper manufacturing, rewinding, and sheeting to the Roaring Spring area, where Appvion already produces this product, will help position the company for long-term success by increasing the efficiencies of its manufacturing and logistics operations. The consolidation plan will result in the shutdown of three under-utilized coaters and related rewinding and sheeting equipment at the Appleton Plant and the elimination of approximately 200 hourly and salaried jobs at that facility. Approximately 300 hourly and salaried plant employees will be retained at the Appleton Plant to continue producing the company’s thermal paper products and some carbonless and specialty coated grades. Employment at Roaring Spring Mill and at Appvion’s thermal paper coating plant in West Carrollton, Ohio, will be unaffected by the plan. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Fortress Paper Reports Third Quarter 2017 Results

Fortress Paper Ltd. reported 2017 third quarter operating EBITDA of $0.2 million, a decrease of $7.4 million relative to the comparative prior year period and a decrease of $4.1 million over the previous quarter. The Security Paper Products Segment generated operating EBITDA of $1.8 million, the Dissolving Pulp Segment generated operating EBITDA loss of $0.5 million, and corporate costs were $1.1 million in the third quarter of 2017. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Neenah Paper Announces Corporate Name Change to Neenah, Inc. Effective January 1

Neenah Paper, Inc. announced that the Company will change its name to Neenah, Inc. effective on January 1, 2018. The Company's ticker symbol on the New York Stock Exchange will remain "NP" and names of subsidiaries will not be affected. "As we've continued to successfully execute our strategy to increase our presence in growing and profitable specialty niche markets, the last name of "paper" does not sufficiently reflect the diversity of our current and future company," said John O'Donnell, Chief Executive Officer. "The Neenah name, however, will continue to represent a product portfolio known for high performance and premium quality, as well as a company appreciated for its disciplined capital allocation and commitment to providing attractive returns to investors."
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UPM Plywood introduces new fire retardant WISA®-SpruceFR structural plywood for building and construction

UPM Plywood introduces a new fire retardant WISA-SpruceFR structural plywood for building and construction end uses. WISA-SpruceFR combines the market leading quality and structural performance with B-s1, d0 fire classification - the highest a wood product can have. "This is uniquely different type of plywood product released to the market," says Riku Härkönen, Product Manager at UPM Plywood. "There are products which are either extremely expensive, pressure treated, or they come with conditions and requirements for other structural solutions," Härkönen describes. Unlike in many other fire-resistant wooden products, the fire-retardant treatment in WISA-SpruceFR does not compromise the plywood's technical properties; the panels preserve the original qualities of untreated WISA-Spruce plywood. Also, different from many other wood panels, WISA-SpruceFR does not require any special structural design to achieve the fire classification. It can be used just like a regular plywood panel. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Neenah Reports Third Quarter 2017 Results

Third Quarter Highlights •Revenue of $245.1 million increased 5 percent, or $12.2 million, from $232.9 million in the prior year. •Operating income of $29.0 million increased 8 percent, or $2.1 million, from $26.9 million in the prior year. •Earnings per diluted share (E.P.S.) of $1.10 increased 16 percent from $0.95 per share in 2016. •On an adjusted basis, E.P.S. of $1.02 in 2017 increased 3 percent from $0.99 in 2016. Adjusted E.P.S. excluded $0.12 per share in 2017 for net proceeds from an insurance settlement, and acquisition, integration, and restructuring costs of $0.04 per share in both years. •Cash generated from operations of $36.2 million decreased from $40.6 million in 2016 while capital spending of $8.0 million in the quarter decreased from $20.8 million in the third quarter of 2016. •A binding agreement was signed to acquire Coldenhove, a Netherlands-based performance materials company and leader in digital transfer media, with annual sales of $45 million. Closing occurred on November 1, with a payment of $45 million. Click Read More below for additional information.
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KP Tissue Releases Third Quarter 2017 Financial Results

KPLP Q3 2017 Business and Financial Highlights -- Revenue increased by 7.5% to $336.3 million in Q3 2017 compared to Q3 2016 -- Adjusted EBITDA was $39.4 million in Q3 2017 compared to $45.6 million in Q3 2016 -- TAD Products sales and Adjusted EBITDA contribution continued to be strong, in line with previously set targets -- Successful start-up of new Paper Machine #8 and a new converting line in Crabtree, Quebec site. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Orchids Paper Products Company Announces Third Quarter 2017 Results

Net sales increased $6.7 million, or 18%, in the third quarter of 2017 compared to the second quarter of 2017. The increase in net sales principally reflects the continuing ramp-up of new business, which began to be produced and shipped late in the second quarter of 2017. Converted product net sales increased $7.2 million, with $6.9 million of the increase attributable to increased volume and $0.3 million due to an increase in the average selling price. Parent roll sales decreased $0.5 million, reflecting the utilization of increasing mill capacities to service new converted-product business. Cost of sales increased $5.5 million, or 15%. Standard cost of sales increased $4.2 million, or 15%, consistent with the change in sales. Major contributors to the remaining $1.3 million increase in cost of sales include: approximately $0.9 million of increased freight cost based on changes in customer and geographic distributions; approximately $1.0 million of increased material costs, principally for virgin fiber; approximately $1.2 million of increased overhead costs not yet covered by production and sales at the new Barnwell, South Carolina facility; and other factors such as inventory obsolescence resulting from changes in customers' product lines and certain manufacturing efficiency variances. Partially offsetting these noted changes in costs were: approximately $1.3 million of variances were capitalized that were directly attributable to preproduction test runs necessary to get Barnwell's new equipment ready for its intended use, and Pryor's absorption variance improved by approximately $0.6 million. Click Read More below for additional information.
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UPM and the Government of Uruguay sign an investment agreement to establish a competitive operating platform for a possible new pulp mill in Uruguay

UPM and the Government of Uruguay have signed an investment agreement, which outlines the local prerequisites for a potential pulp mill investment. The agreement details the roles, commitments and time-line for both parties as well as the relevant items to be agreed prior to the final investment decision. The agreement defines the requirements for the operating environment of a world-class pulp mill project. The site of the mill would be close to the city of Paso de los Toros, in the department of Durazno in central Uruguay. A long-term industrial operation requires stable and predictable operational environment. This will be supported by several measures in the areas of regional development, environment, forestry and land planning as well as labour and energy conditions. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Appleton Coated Update

We continue to accept stock orders and run limited finishing equipment (primarily sheeters and winders) to process and convert existing work in process to customer specific sizes. We have inventory remaining in most of our grades including: • U1X sheets • U2:XG Sheets • U2 Sheets & Web • Utopia Premium Sheets • Utopia Inkjet • Reincarnation Sheets • C1S Sheets (limited amounts) • Ethos Offset 30-100% PCRF • Ethos Enhanced Inkjet • Ethos Uncoated Inkjet with ColorPRO • Ethos Pharma Insert Opaque
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Sappi Europe to increase prices on LWC and MWC grades by 6-8% from January 1st 2018

Due to continuing input cost increases Sappi is forced to continue passing on this cost inflation by increasing its LWC and MWC grades prices by 6-8% from January 1st 2018 for all markets. This follows previous announcements made for its woodfree coated and woodfree uncoated grades. Despite strong order books margins continue to be depressed by this severe input cost inflation. Sappi’s sales representatives will be in touch with their customers to agree on the specifics over the following weeks.
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U.S. to issue import duties on Canadian softwood lumber

The U.S. Department of Commerce announced Thursday it will impose countervailing and antidumping import duties on several Canadian softwood lumber firms. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said the department determined Canada is providing unfair subsidies to its producers of softwood lumber at rates from 3.34 percent to 18.19 percent and has sold softwood lumber to the United States at 3.20 percent to 8.89 percent less than fair value. "While I am disappointed that a negotiated agreement could not be made between domestic and Canadian softwood producers, the United States is committed to free, fair and reciprocal trade with Canada," Ross said. As a result of the findings, Commerce instructed U.S. Customs and Border Protection to collect import duties averaging 20.83 percentt on Canadian lumber imports. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Canadian Forest Sector Disappointed With Final U.S. Softwood Lumber Duties

Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) is disappointed with the U. S. Commerce Department’s announcement of final duties on Canadian softwood lumber. These are unwarranted duties that the U.S. is levying against our industry and it will result in Americans paying more to build and renovate their homes. FPAC will continue to work alongside the federal government, provincial governments and our provincial forest products association partners to ensure that Canada’s forest products sector remains competitive and innovative in the face of these protectionist measures. "We appreciate that the federal government has pledged its continued support to defend our sector and our workers against these tariffs which are completely without merit,” said Derek Nighbor, CEO of Forest Products Association of Canada.
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Norske Skog Meaningful progress with holders of the NSF facility and the Perpetual Notes

Norske Skog has over the last few days made meaningful progress with the holders of the EUR 100 million NSF facility and the majority holder of the 2115 Perpetual Notes towards find a mutual acceptable solution where these financial instruments are included in the consensual recapitalization of the Norske Skog group. If a solution is achieved, Norske Skog will have received indicative support from the requisite majority of all relevant financial instruments in the Norske Skog capital structure. Due to the need to include a solution for the NSF facility and the Perpetual Notes in the overall recapitalization proposal, a new consent solicitation to the secured and unsecured noteholders will need to be launched. It is not anticipated that the updated consent solicitation will include any material changes to the terms set out in the current consent solicitation statement. As a new consent solicitation will have to be launched, the current consent solicitation will not be extended and will therefore expire on 3 November 2017 at 17:00 CET. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Sentinel Capital Partners Acquires Nekoosa

Sentinel Capital Partners, a private equity firm that invests in promising companies at the lower end of the middle market, today announced the acquisition of Nekoosa, a leading manufacturer of specialty paper and film products used in the graphics and commercial print markets. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Headquartered in Nekoosa, Wisconsin, Nekoosa produces a comprehensive suite of specialty engineered materials in four key product areas: application and pressure sensitive tapes used to protect and transfer graphics onto surfaces such as store windows and commercial vehicles; specialty synthetic papers that offer a digitally printable tear-and-water-proof alternative to lamination; sheeted digital and offset grade carbonless paper; and extruded film products used in wall panel, credit card, and lighting applications. Through a network of more than 1,000 global distributor partners, Nekoosa serves a highly-diverse base of more than 70,000 commercial print and graphics shops in 65 countries. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Fortress Paper Provides Operational Update on its Landqart Mill

Fortress Paper Ltd. announces that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Landqart AG, has received notices from one of its significant international customers cancelling that portion of purchase orders which were scheduled for production and delivery by the Landqart Mill in the fourth quarter of 2017 and in fiscal 2018. The cancelled purchase orders represent approximately 16% of the budgeted order book at the Landqart Mill for fiscal 2017 and 30% for fiscal 2018. Despite other suppliers experiencing similar cancellations, Landqart continues to have dialogue with the customer to potentially reinstate all or a portion of the cancelled orders over an extended period of time within fiscal 2018. There are no assurances that any reinstatement will be forthcoming. Management is seeking to fill the production void caused by the cancellations and is deploying various strategies, including: (a) pulling forward existing purchase orders, (b) seeking new orders from existing and new customers, and (c) requesting special one-time supplemental orders from existing customers for immediate production. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Interfor Reports Q3’17 Results

INTERFOR CORPORATION recorded net earnings in Q3’17 of $16.8 million, or $0.24 per share, compared to $24.5 million, or $0.35 per share in Q2’17 and $15.1 million, or $0.22 per share in Q3’16. Adjusted net earnings1 (which takes into account the effects of share-based compensation expense and non-recurring items) in Q3’17 were $20.0 million or $0.29 per share, compared to $28.7 million, or $0.41 per share in Q2’17 and $20.7 million, or $0.30 per share in Q3’16. Adjusted EBITDA1 for Q3’17 was $60.5 million (or $70.0 million excluding the impact from $9.4 million of softwood lumber duties expense), on sales of $489.2 million versus $77.4 million on sales of $511.4 million in Q2’17. Notable items in the quarter included: * Mixed Benchmark Lumber Prices and Stronger Canadian Dollar * Total lumber production was 645 million board feet, or 10 million board feet fewer than the prior quarter. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Orient Paper, Inc. Pre-announces Unaudited Preliminary Financial Results for the Third Quarter 2017

Zhenyong Liu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Orient Paper, commented, "Our third quarter results largely reflected the impact of a government mandated temporary restriction on production volume that has been in place since November 2016. Total revenue decreased by 10.6% year over year to $33.5 million on the back of a 36.1% drop in overall volume that more than offset the increase in blended average selling prices. Looking ahead, we expect the newly elected Communist Party of China leaders to continue to promulgate rules and regulations on environmental protection that could lead to government-mandated temporary restriction or suspension on paper production from time-to-time, leading to significant changes in pricing and supply/demand balances." Click Read More below for additional information.
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Neenah Completes Purchase of Coldenhove

Neenah Paper, Inc. announced that it had completed the previously announced purchase 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. Upon closing, the Company made a cash payment of approximately $45 million. The payment was financed through almost $14 million of available cash on hand, with the balance from incremental borrowing against the Company's existing global revolving credit facility. Interest rates on the additional short term debt were under two percent.
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Resolute Reports Preliminary Third Quarter 2017 Results

The company recorded operating income of $48 million in the quarter, an improvement of $95 million compared to the second quarter of 2017, as adjusted EBITDA increased to $118 million from $83 million in the previous quarter. The company's operating results were positively impacted by increases in sales of market pulp and wood products, where shipments and pricing improved compared to the previous quarter. Profitability was also supported by lower manufacturing costs and savings derived from the closure of a high cost machine in our specialty papers segment, resulting in operating margin improvements that offset volume declines. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Boise Paper and Box Tops for Education™ Launch “Give the Gift of Box Tops” Sweepstakes

In the spirit of the holiday season, Boise Paper and Box Tops for Education™ launched the "Give the Gift of Box Tops" Sweepstakes today, giving three winners the chance to help their local schools. Through November 30, 2017, U.S. residents can enter the sweepstakes daily for the chance to win 10,000 Bonus Box Tops and 400 reams of Boise Paper products for the participating school of their choice. "Boise Paper is proud to support America's schools as a partner of General Mills' Box Tops for Education program," said Paul LeBlanc, vice president of Boise Paper. "We love seeing first-hand how Box Tops make a difference for schools throughout the country, and we are excited that this sweepstakes will give three lucky winners the chance to truly make a difference with an unexpected gift for the holidays." Click Read More below for additional information.
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Rayonier Reports Third Quarter 2017 Results

Rayonier Inc. reported third quarter net income attributable to Rayonier of $24.7 million, or $0.19 per share, on revenues of $177.9 million. This compares to net income attributable to Rayonier of $39.4 million, or $0.32 per share, on revenues of $171.4 million in the prior year quarter. The prior year third quarter results included $1.2 million of costs related to shareholder litigation.1 Excluding this item, pro forma net income2 was $40.6 million, or $0.33 per share, in the prior year period. Third quarter operating income was $39.3 million versus $49.7 million in the prior year period. Prior year third quarter operating income included $1.2 million of costs related to shareholder litigation.1 Excluding this item, pro forma operating income2 was $50.9 million in the prior year period. Third quarter Adjusted EBITDA2 was $69.9 million versus $87.2 million in the prior year period. The decline in Adjusted EBITDA2 relative to the prior year period was primarily due to lower real estate results, as the prior year period included a $48.3 million sale comprised of 17,772 acres in Georgia. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Sappi North America Unveils New Marketing Resource, ‘The Five Second Rule’ Supported by Sappi’s Line of High-Quality Web Cover Grades for a Flawless First Impression

Sappi North America, a leading producer and supplier of diversified paper and packaging products, has revealed its newest promotional resource for brand managers, “The Five Second Rule”. With only five seconds to convince a customer to read a piece of direct mail, first impressions are critical. Printed on Sappi’s multiple web cover grades, Opus and Somerset, the kits come in a stunning exterior envelope, designed to illustrate direct mail’s ability to instantly stand out and create a memorable experience so that consumers are driven to take action. Inside, readers will find inspiration for making collateral that resonates with four unique direct mail examples. Direct mail is the preferred method of brand communications for consumers aged 18-34[i], with marketing representing more than half of the total mail volume in the U.S.[ii] Together, these figures illustrate the immense need for businesses to employ thoughtful, targeted and high-quality direct mail campaigns that will stand out. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Stora Enso to divest Puumerkki, a wholesaler of wooden building materials

Stora Enso has divested 100% of its shares in the Finnish Puumerkki Oy and the Estonian Puumerkki AS to Mimir Invest AB, a global investment firm. Puumerkki is a specialised wholesaler of wooden building materials and was 100% owned by Stora Enso. This divestment supports Stora Enso’s Wood Products division in focusing on its growth strategy and further build on the strength of the premium portfolio of products and services. Puumerkki’s wholesale business does not belong to Stora Enso’s core business. The new owner is in a better position to give Puumerkki the attention it deserves and ensure its long-term development. Puumerkki will continue to be a key customer for Stora Enso’s renewable building materials also going forward. Click Read More below for additional information.
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Metsä Group’s comparable operating result in January–September 2017 was EUR 381 million

January–September 2017 (1–9/2016) • Sales were EUR 3,712 million (3,483). • Operating result was EUR 397 million (333). Comparable operating result was EUR 381 million (332). • Result before tax was EUR 345 million (275). Comparable result before tax was EUR 330 million (275). • Comparable return on capital employed was 11.2 per cent (10.5). Comparable return on capital employed excluding investments related to the bioproduct mill was 14.0 per cent (11.9). • Cash flow from operations was EUR 611 million (298). July–September 2017 (7–9/2016) • Sales were EUR 1,260 million (1,143). • Operating result was EUR 143 million (107). Comparable operating result was EUR 134 million (103). • Result before tax was EUR 109 million (89). Comparable result before tax was EUR 100 million (85). • Comparable return on capital employed was 10.8 per cent (9.8). Comparable return on capital employed excluding investments related to the bioproduct mill was 13.7 per cent (11.1). • Cash flow from operations was EUR 420 million (177). Click Read More below for additional information.
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Norske Skog: Broad support from bondholders, extension required

Norske Skog has so far received support from a clear majority of both the secured and the unsecured noteholders for the proposed recapitalization solution. Norske Skog has now likely surpassed the thresholds required to implement the transaction by way of Schemes of Arrangement. However, the transaction is also contingent upon support from the majority holder of the EUR 100 million NSF and the 2115 Perpetual Notes. The consent solicitation deadline is extended until Friday 3 November at 17:00 CET to allow sufficient time to allow for further discussions with the holders of NSF and Perpetual Notes. Click Read More below for additional information.
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KaMin LLC Announces Price Increase for Paper and Packaging Grade Kaolin Clays

KaMin LLC announced that it will increase prices for kaolin clay products for the global paper and packaging industry 5 percent effective Jan. 1, 2018, or as contracts allow. "This price increase is necessary to ensure our long-term sustainability," stated Mark Gillespie, Vice President of Commercial. "KaMin has continued to invest to meet regulatory requirements, as well as continued increases in labor, energy and freight/logistics costs." KaMin LLC also announces that its energy surcharge policy will remain unchanged. The threshold of $5/MMBTU and incremental surcharges by product type will remain the same. This policy applies to all slurry, spray-dried hydrous and calcined kaolin grades sold to the paper industry globally.
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Petra Einarsson appointed new CEO of BillerudKorsnäs

The Board of Directors of BillerudKorsnäs has appointed Petra Einarsson new President and CEO of the company. Petra succeeds Per Lindberg who is, after 12 successful years, leaving BillerudKorsnäs on his own request for a new assignment. Petra Einarsson will assume her new position at the turn of the year 2017-2018. ”I am very glad to present Petra Einarsson as new President and CEO of BillerudKorsnäs”, says Lennart Holm, Chairman of the Board. “Petra is a highly experienced and competent leader. She has during her years as President of Sandvik Materials Technology shown her capability to successfully develop a complex process industry in a competitive environment. With Petra as new CEO, I am convinced we will succeed in our ambitions to further develop BillerudKorsnäs to new levels.” Click Read More below for additional information.
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Glatfelter Reports Third Quarter 2017 Results

Glatfelter reported net income of $12.1 million, or $0.27 per diluted share for the third quarter of 2017 compared with net income of $19.6 million, or $0.44 per diluted share in the third quarter of 2016. Adjusted earnings for the third quarter of 2017 was $21.9 million, or $0.50 per diluted share compared with $24.0 million, or $0.54 per diluted share, for the same period a year ago. On an adjusted basis, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and excluding pension expense (“Adjusted EBITDA”) for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, totaled $50.6 million and $49.1 million, respectively, an increase of 3.1%. Adjusted earnings and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP financials measures for which reconciliations to the nearest GAAP-based measure are provided within this release. Consolidated net sales totaled $413.3 million and $405.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. In the Composite Fibers and Advanced Airlaid Materials business units, net sales increased by 5.0% and 6.6%, respectively, on a constant currency basis. Specialty Papers’ net sales declined 4.0% in the quarter-over-quarter comparison. Click Read More below for additional information.
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SCA Interim Report Q3 2017

JANUARY 1 – SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 (compared with the year-earlier period, continuing operations): •Net sales increased 9% to SEK 12,422m (11,434) •Adjusted EBITDA improved 10% to SEK 2,683m (2,443) •The adjusted EBITDA margin was 21.6% (21.4) •Adjusted operating profit was SEK 1,838m (1,616) •Operating profit totaled SEK 1,725m (1,739) •Net profit for the period totaled SEK 1,278m (1,358). Click Read More below for additional information.
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WestRock Wins Two Awards at This Year’s Spirit of Alliance Awards

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.
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Demand For Paper Mills Decline While Market For Tissue, Sanitary Paper Is Expected To Rise

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.
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Verso Corporation Announces Price Increase on C1S Sheets & Rolls

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.
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Euro-Graph Publishes August Statistics of the European Graphic Papers Industry

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.
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Domtar Corporation Reports Preliminary Third Quarter 2017 Financial Results

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.
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Mercer International Inc. Reports Strong 2017 Third Quarter Results

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.
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Norbord Reports Third Quarter 2017 Results

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.
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Suzano Reports 3Q17 Results

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.
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Glatfelter Recognized for Service Excellence by Rockline Industries

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.
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The Navigator Company Announces Results for the First 9 Months of 2017

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.
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