Catalyst applauds the government’s commitment to eliminate the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) on electricity for commercial and industrial users in its 2017 budget update, which will assist in protecting jobs in British Columbia’s pulp and paper sector, says Len Posyniak, Senior Vice President, Human Resources & Corporate Services. Effective this fall, the PST on electricity for commercial and industrial users will be reduced from 7% to 3.5%. On April 1, 2019, electricity for commercial and industrial users will be fully exempt from the PST. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Effective with all new and existing orders with confirmed delivery dates of October 1, 2017 or later, Verso Corporation is increasing the transaction price of all Uncoated Freesheet Grades by as much as 6%. This includes, but, is not limited to: Ideal® Offset; Ideal® Reply Card. The increase applies to all basis weights, bulks, finishes and related private label grades. Should you have any questions, please contact your Midland Paper sales professional.

Effective with shipments October 9, 2017, Boise Paper will raise prices by $2/cwt on all private label and branded office papers, printing papers, and converting papers. All minimums, up-charges and shipping policies remain unchanged. Please contact your Boise Paper sales representative with any questions regarding these changes.

Please be advised that we will increase our prices by an average of 5% on the following products, effective with shipments on or after October 6th, 2017. This includes • Rolland Enviro Copy, • ReproPlus. All standard upcharges will remain unchanged. Orders already confirmed for shipment on or after October 6th, 2017 will be priced as acknowledged.

Effective with shipments October 6, 2017, the price for the following products will increase 4-6%: • Husky® and EarthChoice® Opaque Offset Rolls • Domtar® Reply Card Rolls • Domtar® branded and Private Label Office Papers • Converting Papers. All current standard differentials and upcharges remain in effect.

Effective with shipments October 11, 2017, International Paper will increase prices by $2/cwt on the following products: * Williamsburg: Offset Rolls & Return Postcard Rolls; * Postmark® White Wove Envelope; * DataSpeed® Laser MOCR; * Office Papers: All Private Label + Generic White Box + Relay. This increase applies to virgin, recycled and treated products. All standard upcharges will continue to apply.

Norske Skog's newly elected board of directors is progressing the recapitalization process and will continue to work to develop a sustainable, industrially based recapitalization proposal to the stakeholders of the group. This recapitalization proposal will be based on the current operating performance and outlook for the Norske Skog group, and will seek to provide a robust industrial and financial platform for the future development of the group. The board's current intention is to make public the industrially based recapitalization proposal on Monday 18 September (at 13.00 CET), after which date the group's financial creditors will be expected to have a 10 business day period until 2 October at 17.00 CET to accept or reject the board's proposal. The recapitalization proposal will be based on the recently announced 2017 gross operating earnings estimate of around NOK 700 million. The recapitalization proposal will reduce the group's debt position and interest payments to a level which leaves Norske Skog as an industrial company with a realistic and long term sustainable capital structure to enable future development of the group in a rather challenging international business environment. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Neenah announces the release of DISPERSA (TM) Dissolvable Paper, a water-soluble paper that dissolves completely and rapidly in water. DISPERSA (TM) Dissolvable Paper addresses key market needs dictated by an increased focus on environmental awareness, industrial and consumer safety, and convenience. It is 100% dispersible in water in seconds or minutes, depending on conditions, and suitable for flexographic, laser, and inkjet printing technologies. The paper has unique dry strength properties that allows it to withstand the converting processes, but still dissolves when exposed to water. Applications include food rotation labels for reusable food containers in commercial kitchens and heat sealable pouches for safer handling of hazardous substances. DISPERSA (TM) Dissolvable Paper will be manufactured in the USA.

“We have been making offset since 2010 and lightweight opaques since 2013,” explains Jim Bird, Appleton Coated’s uncoated product manager, “and our uncoated products have an excellent reputation with our customers.” Bird continues, “The Swatchbook is a tool that showcases the grades and is an extension of the brand’s continued growth in the market.” “The Offset section of the book features a comparison of 100% Post-Consumer Recovered Fiber (PCRF) Offset, 30% PCRF Offset, and Virgin Fiber Offset to showcase the printed and unprinted excellence of these three offerings.” Bird continues, “Customers are remarking that our sustainable options are virtually indistinguishable from their virgin counterparts. A notable benefit of the book is that every grade and basis weight shown in the book features printed and unprinted examples.” Click Read More below for additional detail.

The Board of BillerudKorsnäs has decided to exercise the authorization granted to it by the Annual General Meeting on 10 May 2017, regarding repurchase of own shares. At the time of this press release, BillerudKorsnäs has 948,476 own shares in treasury. Repurchases may take place on one or more occasions during the period from 12 September 2017 until the next Annual General Meeting, up to a maximum amount of 314,690 shares. Repurchases shall be made on Nasdaq Stockholm at a price per share that is within the registered interval at any given time, i.e. the interval between the highest buying price and lowest selling price. Payment for the shares shall be made in cash. The purpose of the repurchase is to secure future delivery of shares to the participants in BillerudKorsnäs’ long term share based incentive programmes.

As a member of the Annual Disaster Giving Program (ADGP), Boise Paper is a corporate leader who makes a difference by pre-investing in the vital work of the American Red Cross. Through a unique partnership, Boise Paper donates a majority of the office paper the Red Cross uses annually, helping reduce a large administrative expense and allowing the Red Cross to invest more funds in critical humanitarian needs. Donations from ADGP members, like Boise Paper, enabled the Red Cross to be among the first responders on the ground, preparing for the large response effort as Hurricane Harvey bore down on Texas and Louisiana. Contributions from ADGP members power the ability of the Red Cross to provide compassionate care to those in need – from providing relief and support to those in crisis, to helping people be prepared to respond in emergencies. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Expera Specialty Solutions has announced its newly branded Flame-Gard™ Technology. Expera provides flame-resistant solutions for multiple end-use applications. "Flame-resistant papers will char when exposed to a flame, and will not 'support' combustion, self-extinguishing when the flame source is removed," explained Jeff Murphy, Sales and Marketing Director for Expera Specialty Solutions. Expera produces flame-resistant papers across multiple applications. From utility grades and papers used in building and construction, to school craft papers, Expera's innovative technology provides targeted protection. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Kruger Inc. is announcing today a $377.6-M transaction to diversify operations at its Brompton and Wayagamack Mills into specialty niches, such as flexible food packaging, labelling and digital printing. This major project, undertaken in partnership with the Government of Québec, will help to maintain more than 500 jobs in the Mauricie and Estrie regions. The announcement was made today in the presence of Philippe Couillard, Premier of Québec; Dominique Anglade, Minister of Economy, Science and Innovation and Minister responsible for the Digital Strategy; and Joseph Kruger II, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Kruger, as well as Ministers Luc Blanchette, Julie Boulet, and Luc Fortin. Kruger and the Government of Québec have formed a partnership by which Investissement Québec, acting as the government's agent, will grant loans and a loan guarantee totalling $59.8 million and acquire an equity participation of 37.5%, or $44.6 million, in the new entity Kruger Specialty Papers Holding L.P. The new entity comprises the assets of the Brompton and Wayagamack Mills, as well as the Biomass Cogeneration Plant adjacent to the Brompton Mill. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Appleton Coated’s new Ethos Enhanced Inkjet Swatchbook highlights the product’s versatility. Featuring samples printed across multiple high-speed inkjet platforms – including the HP PageWide, Kodak Prosper, Ricoh IPS5000 & Pro VC60000, Canon ColorStream & VarioPrint i300, and Screen TruePress – the book is a showcase of the capabilities of this silk, coated-like inkjet paper. “The swatchbook is printed by our customers across North America,” explains Amy Ambos, Appleton Coated’s inkjet product manager, “using both dye and pigment inks. Ethos Enhanced Inkjet is an obvious choice for many direct mail, commercial and publishing applications.” Ambos continues, “Our customers are impressed with the print quality, runnability, and product availability. The product is manufactured at our mill in Combined Locks, Wisconsin, ensuring the quick-turn required by many customers.” Click Read More below for additional detail.

During the night between September 5th and 6th, there was a fire in one of the buildings at BillerudKorsnäs’ production unit in Karlsborg and the production has been stopped since then. After analysing the impact of the fire, BillerudKorsnäs now expects Karlsborg to be back to full production during the week starting with Monday September 18th. "The most important thing is that no person has been injured in the fire. We have now assessed the impact of the fire and the work with making the unit ready for start of production is ongoing at high intensity. We expect full production to be reached during next week, i.e. the week starting with Monday September 18th. As it is a complex start-up after this type of event, there is some uncertainty about the exact timing", says Per Lindberg, President and CEO of BillerudKorsnäs. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Sappi North America’s publication, “Verticals: The Marketing of Higher Education,” was selected as the 2017 winner of the annual Positively Print award. Pursuing the organization’s mission to educate its stakeholders, Sappi launched the Verticals series to examine individual vertical markets and the unique challenges, traditions, and idiosyncrasies each faces when communicating with its target audience. This first installment of the Verticals series aims to bring colleges and universities across the United States a set of best practices for attracting new students through in-depth research and case studies. “Verticals: The Marketing of Higher Education” brings industry statistics to life, busts myths on marketing to this demographic, and includes a five-page pullout full of special effects and cross-channel marketing tips. With competition stronger than ever, the publication creatively demonstrates how print, a sustainable choice, effectively cuts through digital clutter, helping colleges and universities create a lasting impression to stand out with students and their families. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Sappi Limited, a leading producer and supplier of diversified paper and packaging products, will be showing its full range of speciality and packaging grades at the 2017 Pack Expo Las Vegas September 25-27, 2017. Sappi is committed to offering customers high-quality, innovative and sustainable specialty products and solutions via its robust global network. "We are experts in what we do and a reliable partner when it comes to challenging packaging solutions as well as the manufacturing processes for these types of packaging,” said Mark Odgers, Director of Packaging, Sappi North America. “In light of the high investment levels and significant amount of work that Sappi has put into packaging and speciality papers, we’re excited to share our full product line and what’s next for us at Pack Expo. We are delighted to invite all visitors to stop by to discuss their specific requirements with us."

Appleton Coated’s new Ethos Enhanced Inkjet Swatchbook highlights the product’s versatility. Featuring samples printed across multiple high-speed inkjet platforms – including the HP PageWide, Kodak Prosper, Ricoh IPS5000 & Pro VC60000, Canon ColorStream & VarioPrint i300, and Screen TruePress – the book is a showcase of the capabilities of this silk, coated-like inkjet paper. “The swatchbook is printed by our customers across North America,” explains Amy Ambos, Appleton Coated’s inkjet product manager, “using both dye and pigment inks. Ethos Enhanced Inkjet is an obvious choice for many direct mail, commercial and publishing applications.” Ambos continues, “Our customers are impressed with the print quality, runnability, and product availability. The product is manufactured at our mill in Combined Locks, Wisconsin, ensuring the quick-turn required by many customers.”

Glatfelter (NYSE: GLT) today announced that Dante C. Parrini, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and John P. Jacunski, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will be presenting at the 2017 KeyBanc Capital Markets Basic Materials & Packaging Conference on September 12, 2017, at the InterContinental Hotel in Boston, MA. The presentation will begin at 12:05 p.m. Eastern.

On average J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) awards over $250,000 in educational scholarships each year. We award some of these scholarships to the children of our valued employees who are pursuing their education at a post-secondary level. Recently, seven students were awarded scholarships in a ceremony at our Saint John Head Office. “Congratulations to this year’s scholarship winners,” said Mary-Beth Tingly, Director of Human Resources for Irving Business Services. “We are pleased to award scholarships for students who excel academically, and show a passion for community involvement. Best of luck in your chosen field. We hope you will keep summer and co-op opportunities with J.D. Irving, Limited in mind throughout your education.”

This August, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) volunteered to host a visit to our operations as part of the Atlantic Canadian Teachers’ Tour, held in Truro, Nova Scotia. Educators from all over the Atlantic Provinces gathered to learn more about the forestry industry and how it impacts our region. The three-day tour involved tours of local mills, private woodlot owners land and JDI freehold land, pre-commercial thinning and commercial thinning.

Weyerhaeuser Company today announced effective immediately that all its lands in Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, Missoula, Sanders and Ravalli counties in Western Montana are closed to public access due to the extreme forest fire danger. The closure will remain in effect until further notice.

As of September 1, 2017, Appleton Coated Green Power will no longer carry Green-e certification. Our relationship with Green-e ended on August 31, 2017. Although products in the warehouse still have the Green-e logo imprinted on the labels, these items are no longer sold with this certification. All Appleton Coated products that carry the Appleton Coated Green Power designation in inventory now and moving forward will continue to have 100% of the electricity used to manufacture these products matched with renewable energy credits (RECS), which is primarily wind.

When your employees and customers understand the fundamentals of paper, they better understand the value your company provides. After a successful event last September, NPTA Paper School returns this fall in Chicago, IL. This half-day program teaches the most important topics in paper and provides each attendee with a strong foundation of knowledge to build on. The six classroom sections are taught by paper industry leading experts from top paper mills. Attendees will receive access to the PRINT17 tradeshow floor and take a guided tour of the most advanced printing equipment in the world.

Paradigm Hyperloop is a team of students from Memorial University of Newfoundland, College of the North Atlantic, and Northeastern University of Boston that has been planning, designing, and developing a hyperloop pod, which is a conceptual fifth mode of transportation that involves levitating train-like vehicles that travel through low pressure vacuum tubes. The team has been at the project for two years! J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) is proud to sponsor the innovative work that the Paradigm Hyperloop team is doing.

Sappi Limited is pleased to announce that it will bolster its biorefining expertise through the acquisition of the Xylex® and Versalac® technologies owned by Plaxica Limited. The transaction will result in Sappi acquiring the sugar clean up technologies which includes the patents, knowhow, equipment and key technical staff of Plaxica. The size of the transaction does not require regulatory disclosure. Since 2013, Sappi has advanced its efforts to expand its biorefining expertise. Part of the strategy is to extract and clean-up C5 hemicellulose sugars from our Pre-Hydrolysis Kraft (PHK) liquors for further value add to higher value products. Commenting on the transaction, Louis Kruyshaar, Executive Vice President of Sappi Biotech said “Plaxica’s Xylex® solution is rated as one of the most advanced to offer optimum efficiency and economics for separation and clean-up of C5 sugars from pulp mill hydrolysates.” Click Read More below for additional detail.

American paper companies have imposed a 20% duty on coated paper from the Port Hawkesbury Mill in Nova Scotia, while Irving Paper in New Brunswick and Catalyst Paper of Britsh Columbia have had a 18% tariff imposed. North Pacific Papers of Washington State has also filed for countervailing duties on Canadian uncoated groundwood paper from Canada. The Hawkesbury mill won on appeal in its first round with the NAFTA panel. The U.S. has until mid-summer to appeal that decision, while other cases are being appealed by both the Canadian Federal and Provincial governments. During a recent rally in Phoenix Arizona, U.S. President Donald Trump said the U.S. will “probably” terminate NAFTA because he doesn’t think a deal can be made. His comments come about a week after re-negotiation talks began. The U.S. has also formally demanded that the Chapter 19 dispute resolution panels favoured by Canada be scrapped. In the past, the majority of its decisions have been won by Canada. Ottawa has promised to walk away from the talks before it accepts a NAFTA without these panels. The first round of NAFTA talks held recently failed to bridge the differences between Canada, the USA and Mexico, and left little signs of any real compromises. Next month, Mexico will host the second round of talks from September 1-5. Talks will then move to Canada later in September and return to the United States in October.

International Paper has pledged $1 million to support disaster relief efforts in the communities impacted by Hurricane Harvey and Tropical Storm Harvey. The International Paper Foundation will contribute $750,000 to the American Red Cross chapters in Texas and Louisiana, and will contribute $250,000 to Feeding America. International Paper has established strategic partnerships with these organizations to provide disaster relief in communities where IP employees live and work. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Mondi has decided to postpone its €135 million investment in a new 90,000 tonne per annum machine glazed speciality kraft paper machine at its Steti mill in the Czech Republic. Commenting on the decision, Peter Oswald, Mondi CEO, said, “We have decided to postpone the machine glazed speciality kraft paper machine investment after a careful review of market conditions. While the proposed new machine remains an exciting investment opportunity, offering the lowest cost production of its sort in Europe, recently announced industry capacity expansions are expected to result in a market imbalance over the period in which the new machine was planned to come on line. There is no change to our €335 million investment in modernising the mill including rebuilding the fibre lines, de-bottlenecking the existing packaging paper machines and a new recovery boiler, which is progressing as planned.”

Total European shipments of graphic papers in June 2017 were UP 0.5% vs. June 2016 and are down 0.8% year-to-date. Total European shipments of newsprint in June 2017 were down 1.7% vs. June 2016 and are down 3.8% year-to-date. Total European shipments of sc-magazine in June 2017 were down 2.2% vs. June 2016 and are UP 2.2% year-to-date. Total European shipments of coated mechanical reels in June 2017 were UP 1.7% vs. June 2016 and are down 2.0% year-to-date. Total European shipments of coated mechanical (improved and others) in June 2017 were UP 0.6% vs. June 2016 and are UP 1.4% year-to-date. Total European shipments of coated woodfree in June 2017 were UP 5.7% vs. June 2016 and are UP 1.4% year-to-date. Total European shipments of uncoated woodfree in June 2017 were down 1.1% vs. June 2016 and are down 0.8% year-to-date.

For the second quarter ended 30 June 2017, Lecta had revenue of €360.7 million versus €357.6 million in the second quarter ended 30 June 2016, an increase of €3.1 million or +1%. This increase was attributable to: • Lower sales of CWF, Specialties and Purchased Products of €-4.6 million or -1%, from €341.6 million in 2Q2016 to €337.0 million in 2Q2017, resulting from lower sales volumes of 500 metric tons or -0%, 377,000 metric tons in 2Q2017 vs 377,500 metric tons in 2Q2016, and a decrease in average net sales price of -11€/t or -1%, 894€/t in 2Q2017 vs 905€/t in 2Q2016; and • Higher sales of energy of €+7.7 million or +48%, from €16.0 million in 2Q2016 to €23.7 million in 2Q2017, resulting from higher sales volumes of 10,000 MWh or +4%, 271,500 MWh in 2Q2017 vs 261,500 MWh in 2Q2016, and an increase in average sales price of +26€/MWh or +42%, 87€/MWh in 2Q2017 vs 61€/MWh in 2Q2016. The costs of raw materials and consumables used increased by €7.0 million, or +4%, from €182.5 million in 2Q2016 to €189.5 million in 2Q2017, and as a percentage of revenue they increased from 51.0% in 2Q2016 to 52.5% in 2Q2017. The absolute increase was mainly attributable to higher purchased volumes, and an increase in the average consumption prices of pulp of +38€/t and latex from 2Q2016 to 2Q2017. Click Read More below for additional detail.

NORPAC announced that they will raise the price of their Norbrite grades by $35.00 per short ton ($1.75/cwt) effective with shipments/invoices on or after October 1, 2017. Specific grades affected by this change in pricing include: Norbrite 65 ;Norbrite 70; Norbrite 75; Norbrite Plus; Norbrite Offset; Norbrite 92 Max; Norbrite Book Blue White; Norbrite Book Cream; Norbrite Hybrid

Please be advised that, effective with shipments October 1, 2017, the US transaction pricing from Catalyst Paper will increase $1.75/cwt ($35/short ton) for the following products: Electrabrite; Electrabrite Book; Electrastar. This increase applies to all basis weights, finishes and brightness.

Please be advised we plan to increase the price of our 30# (48.8 gsm.) standard newsprint by $30.00 per metric ton effective October 1, 2017. Prices for other newsprint basis weights will increase proportionally as per past practices.

Please be advised that effective with shipments on or after October 1, 2017, 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, and Equal (Offset & Book); Hybrid (Smooth, Vellum & Envelope); Alternative (Opaque, Offset & Offset+); ResoluteSelect 75; ResoluteSelect 70, 65; ResoluteBook 85, 75, 70, 65, 60 & ResoluteBook 70 Cream; Alternative Book, Alternative Book Cream; ResoluteText 80, ResoluteText Cream; ResoluteSert 65 The increase will be applicable to all basis weights and finishes, and all up charges apply.

Please be advised that, effective with shipments on or after October 1, 2017, Resolute Forest Products will raise its newsprint price by US$30/metric tonne (for 48.8 gsm). Prices for other basis weights will be adjusted accordingly. Please note that this price increase does not apply to Ponderay Newsprint Company.

Effective with deliveries on or after October 1, 2017, UPM is increasing the transaction price of all Supercalendared and Coated Groundwood grades. The transaction price of Supercalendered (SC) grades will increase $2.00/cwt, including all basis weights and finishes. Grades impacted include: Eco; Impresse; Impresse Plus; Max; Cat; Smart The transaction price of Coated Groundwood grades will increase $1.00/cwt, including all basis weights and finishes. Grades impacted include: Cote; Ultra; Valor; Star. Please note that the Coated Groundwood portion of this price increase is being announced and implemented in addition to our previous price increase letter dated June 2, 2017, implemented on deliveries July 1 and later.

According to the July 2017 Printing-Writing Monthly report from the American Forest & Paper Association, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased five percent in July compared to July 2016. This is the eleventh consecutive year-over-year decrease following a modest fractional increase in August 2016. All four printing-writing grade categories posted year-over-year shipment declines in July. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels increased two percent from June 2017. •July uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper shipments decreased year-over-year at the lowest rate since the last increase in August 2016. Imports of UFS decreased by 22% year-over-year in June while exports of UFS papers increased 41% year-over-year in June. The 68,200 tons exported in June was the highest level of UFS exports since March 2015. •Shipments of uncoated mechanical (UM) papers decreased year-over-year in June for the 13th consecutive month. Imports of UM increased 8% year-over-year in June while exports of UM decreased 14% year-over-year in June. •July shipments of coated free sheet (CFS) papers declined for the second consecutive month following the only year-over-year increase in 2017. Shipments of coated one-side free sheet papers decreased three percent year-over-year in July but remain flat for the year-to-date. U.S. imports of CFS papers increased 8% year-over-year in June while exports of CFS papers decreased 4% year-over-year in June. •Coated mechanical (CM) paper shipments declined year-over-year in July, the second consecutive decline. Imports of CM decreased in June, down 5% compared to June 2016 while exports of CM increased 12% in June.

The foundation stone of Metsä Wood’s new birch plywood mill was laid in Pärnu, Estonia. The greetings in the ceremony were delivered by the Minister of Public Administration of Estonia Mr. Jaak Aab and the President and CEO of Metsä Group Mr. Kari Jordan. “This is an important investment for Metsä Wood and the whole Metsä Group. It is done to better meet the globally growing plywood demand and to further improve Metsä Wood’s industrial efficiency. The new mill is a good example of Finnish-Estonian cooperation. Estonia has favourable business climate and it offers good logistical connections to our main markets.” said CEO of Metsä Group Kari Jordan in today’s ceremony. The annual birch plywood production capacity at the Pärnu mill will be 50 000 cubic metres and the total investment is approximately 55 million euros. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Pursuant to the recommendation from the election and remuneration committee of Norske Skog announced earlier today, several changes in board of directors were proposed to the extraordinary general meeting to be held tomorrow, 24 August 2017. On this basis, the planned public launch of a revised recapitalization transaction will be postponed in order to provide the new board with an opportunity to review the recapitalization transaction and allow for discussions with relevant stakeholders prior to a public launch. In the interim, the work with finalizing the documentation for the committed EUR 16 million liquidity facility continues. As previously announced, a significant majority of senior secured bond holders (SSN) (EUR 290 mill, due in 2019) and the holders of the Norwegian Securitisation Facility (NSF) (EUR 100 mill, due in 2020) have committed to provide a EUR 16 million liquidity facility to support the operating business of Norske Skog. The work with finalizing the documentation for this liquidity facility is being progressed in an expedite manner. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Effective with all orders shipping on or after October 1, 2017, Evergreen Packaging is raising the transaction price on all coated groundwood products by $1.00/cwt. This increase applies to all products, including, but not limited to, the following brands: TruSpec4; TruSpec4.5 Low Glare; TruSpec4.5; TruSpec5. All standard upcharges will continue to apply.

Neenah Paper has characterized its new synthetic paper as “a significant addition” to its portfolio of labels for harsh environments. The Neenah Performance Labels portfolio of high performing, highly engineered substrates is designed for applications in demanding conditions. Its Kimdura line of label stock has been used for more than 30 years for challenging applications – including labels and tags for drum chemicals, hazard communications, health care, industrial, logistical and outdoor. Kimdura DualTech is available at 3.5pt (98g/sqm), adds an option for both inkjet and laser printing platforms, and is compliant with BS 5609 Part 2 and 3. “Our customers expect Neenah to develop products to fit their evolving needs. Kimdura DualTech demonstrates best-in-class performance and chemical resistance with laser and inkjet printers, even when exposed to a wide range of industrial and household solvents,” said Srinivas Nomula, Senior Director of Marketing at Neenah Performance Labels & Specialties. “Similar products in the marketplace showed little or no resistance to industrial chemicals when printed using laser printers. Kimdura DualTech outperformed other labels, with even barcodes remaining legible during harsh testing environments.” Click Read More below for additional detail.

Norske Skog's gross operating earnings (EBITDA) in the second quarter 2017 were NOK 190 million, an increase from 158 million in the first quarter 2017. The European units contributed less to gross operating earnings than in the first quarter ; whereas, the Australasian units gross operating earnings improved. Operating earnings in the second quarter was NOK -52 million compared to positive operating earnings of NOK 2 million in the first quarter of 2017. Net loss in the second quarter was NOK 546 million compared with a net loss of NOK 274 million in the first quarter 2017. Cash flow from operating activities before net financial items seasonally increased from NOK 175 million in the first quarter 2017 to NOK 226 million in the second quarter 2017. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Georgia-Pacific LLC announced today that it has reached an agreement to sell its pine chemicals business to Ingevity for $315 million, including certain pine chemicals-related assets at the Crossett, Arkansas plant. The acquisition is subject to regulatory clearance and Ingevity and Georgia-Pacific expect to close on the transaction in late 2017. Separately, Ingevity will enter into several contract manufacturing arrangements for oilfield and mining products currently produced at other Georgia-Pacific facilities. The parties will also separately enter into a 20-year, market-based crude tall oil (CTO) supply contract. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Please be advised that, effective with shipments on or after October 1, 2017, Resolute Forest Products will raise its Coated and SC paper prices by amounts specified below (see primary grades listed). The products impacted by the price increase include, but are not limited to, the following: ResoluteBrite 76 Gloss; ResoluteBrite 76 Satin; ResoluteGloss; ResoluteBlonde Gloss = + $1.00/cwt US and ResoluteSCA+; ResoluteSCA; ResoluteSCB; ResoluteSNC = + $2.00/cwt US. The increases will be applicable to all basis weights and finishes, and all up charges apply.

Production at Metsä Wood's new Kerto® LVL line in Lohja has started. The construction project has progressed according to plan and in schedule. The investment is part of Metsä Wood's EUR 100 million investment program for Kerto® LVL and plywood, and it supports the company’s industrial efficiency strategy. At the Lohja mill, three Kerto LVL production lines were operating until the end of last year. With the investment, one of the old lines has been dismantled and another old line is being run down by the end of 2017. The new Kerto LVL line increases the mill’s production capacity by 20,000 m3 per year. The mill has a total capacity of 120,000 m3. The new line will reach full capacity within one year.

Norske Skog has extended the deadline for the current exchange offers and consent solicitations to 23 August 2017. The existing short-term standstill agreements has also been extended to 23 August 2017, to allow for additional time to conclude the ongoing stakeholder discussions and finalisation of applicable documentation. The group has received a commitment letter for a EUR 16 million liquidity facility from the majority holders of the SSN (EUR 290m, 2019) bond and the NSF (EUR 100m, 2020) loan. Norske Skog plans to launch a revised recapitalization proposal with support from the majority holders of the SSN bond and the NSF loan early next week. The liquidity facility will allow Norske Skog to meet its operational cash flow needs. "We are very pleased that key stakeholders are supporting the business operations of the group through a committed liquidity facility. Our paper mills are highly competitive businesses with a prosperous future irrespective of the final solution to the group's capital structure." said Lars P.S. Sperre, President and CEO of Norske Skog. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. and Tembec Inc. announced that they received clearance from the Competition Bureau of Canada, without condition, of the previously announced proposed statutory arrangement under Section 192 of the Canada Business Corporations Act involving the acquisition by Rayonier Advanced Materials of all of the outstanding shares of Tembec. In addition to clearance by the Competition Bureau, the Transaction already has received antitrust clearance from the Anti-Monopoly Bureau of the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, Germany’s Federal Cartel Office, and the United States Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission. As such, Rayonier Advanced Materials and Tembec have now received all required antitrust clearances. The Transaction has also been approved by Tembec’s shareholders and by the Québec Superior Court. Subject to obtaining other necessary approvals, as well as the satisfaction or waiver of other conditions to the Transaction, it is expected that the Transaction will be completed in the fourth quarter of 2017.

Effective with shipments October 1, 2017 and after, Kruger will increase the transaction price of all coated grades by $1.00/cwt. This includes: Krukote Offset, Krukote HI Bulk, Krukote 76, Krukote 80, Krukote Recycled. The increase will apply to all basis weights. Also, as stated in their letter of June 7, 2017, to the degree that it is not already fully implemented, it is Kruger's intention to fully implement the July 1, 2017 increase of $2.00/cwt on all of the grades listed above and all basis weights to all customers.

Appleton Coated today said that it has filed a voluntary state Chapter 128 petition for receivership to allow the company’s operations to continue under the supervision of a court-appointed receiver named by the Outagamie County Circuit Court. Company officials said the petition and appointment of a receiver will allow the company to continue operations under the direction of the receiver, who will lead a process aimed at selling the company’s assets to a buyer who will continue operations. “Despite the best efforts of our employees and ownership group and the introduction of new products, this step is the best option at this point,” said Doug Osterberg, Appleton Coated’s president and chief executive officer. “While the company has made significant progress in diversifying its product offerings and entering new markets, the overall business climate is very challenging, and operating under a state court-appointed receiver is the best route to transition the business to sustained profitability.” He said the company’s bank has agreed to fund operations during the receivership and that the business will continue to operate during the transition. He added the company will be able to pay salary and wages and fund benefits for current employees. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Consistent with our June 1, 2017 letter, prices for Supercalendered Web grades listed in that letter are increasing by $2.00/cwt USD/$2.70/cwt CAD. To the extent not already implemented, the pricing will apply to all new and existing orders with confirmed delivery dates of October 1, 2017 or later. Additionally, in reference to our July 27, 2017 letter for #4 Web grades, we are changing the implementation dates and amount of increase to read as follows: Effective with all new and existing orders with confirmed delivery dates of October 1, 2017 or later, Verso Corporation is increasing the transaction price of all #4 Web Grades by $1.00/cwt USD/$1.26/cwt CAD, including but not limited to: Liberty® web; Balance® web; New Era® Matte; New Era® ThinBulk. The increase applies to all basis weights, bulks, finishes and related private label grades.

Determined to stay competitive in the face of Canadian government-subsidized competition, the North Pacific Paper Company (NORPAC) announced the reorganization of its operations. In October 2017, NORPAC will reduce its production capacity by idling one of its three paper machines and expanding the remaining capacity to serve customers. "As we seek to level the playing field under U.S. trade laws to counteract the dumped and subsidized imports from Canada, NORPAC will become a nimbler, stronger supplier to our customers by reorganizing around our two remaining paper machines," said Craig Anneberg, CEO of NORPAC. "Our company is constantly working to improve both our products and operations to remain competitive despite unfair import pricing and Canadian government-subsidized competition." "To keep our company competitive and protect our employees, NORPAC will use all the tools at its disposal under the U.S. trade law to address and counteract the dumped and subsidized imports from Canada," said Anneberg. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Operating profit for January–June 2017 was SEK 1 152 million (January–June 2016: SEK 1 063 million, excluding items affecting comparability). The improvement in earnings was due to higher wood product prices, better earnings from forests and the divestiture of the newsprint mill in Madrid. Compared with the first quarter, operating profit decreased by SEK 102 million to SEK 525 million as a result of a maintenance shutdown within paperboard and seasonally lower hydro power production. Profit after tax for January–June amounted to SEK 880 million (587), which corresponds to earnings per share of SEK 10.5 (7.0). Click Read More below for additional detail.

Resolute Forest Products announces production cuts to their paper business in Calhoun. The company will close paper machines #3 & #5 at the Calhoun plant. That will cost 222 jobs to the operation on the Hiwassee River at the McMinn/Bradley line. The company says they are still committed to the remaining operations at the plant. 491 workers will remain. Resolute has recently expanded operations there, investing in a tissue machine and converting operation, and a continuous pulp digester. Both will remain in operation. Click Read More below for more of the story.

Metsä Group’s next-generation bioproduct mill in Äänekoski came into operation as planned on Tuesday, 15 August 2017 at 6:00 in the morning. Pulp deliveries from the new mill to customers will begin in early September 2017. The construction project was carried out as planned, in accordance with its schedule and its EUR 1.2 billion budget. Before the bioproduct mill started up, the old pulp mill in Äänekoski was shut down and its dismantling is currently in progress. The bioproduct mill will achieve its nominal capacity approximately a year after start-up. The mill will produce 1.3 million tonnes of pulp per year, along with other bioproducts such as tall oil and turpentine. New bioproducts that already complement the product concept include product gas from bark, sulphuric acid from the mill’s odorous gases, and biogas and biofuel pellets from sludge. Click Read More below for more of the story.

Effective for all new and existing orders with confirmed deliveries October 1, 2017 and later, Catalyst Paper will be implementing a price increase of $1.00/cwt for the following paper products: Coated Groundwood Grades: Escanaba®; Dependoweb®; Capri®; Consoweb®. Catalyst Paper will also be implementing a price increase of $2.00/cwt for the following paper products: SC Grades: Electracal®; Electraprime®. This increase applies to all basis weights, finishes, grade extensions and related private label products.

Fortress Paper Ltd. reported 2017 second quarter operating EBITDA of $4.3 million, a decrease of $2.0 million relative to the comparative prior year period and a decrease of $3.2 million over the previous quarter. The Dissolving Pulp Segment generated operating EBITDA of $3.5 million and the Security Paper Products Segment generated operating EBITDA of $2.8 million. Corporate costs included in operating EBITDA were $2.0 million. After 36 years in the forestry industry, including nearly five years at Fortress Paper, Yvon Pelletier will be retiring from the Company effective October 1, 2017. Chadwick Wasilenkoff will re-assume the role of Chief Executive Officer and President and continue to serve as Chairman of the board. In order to facilitate a smooth transition of Mr. Pelletier’s duties and strong customer and government relationships, he has agreed to a two year consulting agreement. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Effective with all new or previously entered orders shipping after 9/11/17 the price of our SC products will be increased by $2/cwt and CAD$2.50. This includes Artisan Plus, Artisan, Prominence Plus, Prominence and Maritime and all basis weights of these grades.

Please be advised that Irving Paper will increase its prices of Irving SCA, Irving SCB, Irving Radiance (SCA+) and Irving Opulence (SCA++) $40USD/ST and $50CDN/ST effective with all new and existing orders shipping on and after September 1, 2017. This increase affects all basis weights.

Norske Skog has received a well-developed recapitalization proposal from a substantial number of the secured holders of the SSN (EUR 290m, 2019) bond and the NSF (EUR 100m, 2020) loan, as detailed in the 28 July 2017 stock exchange release. Certain unsecured bondholders have further provided an alternative proposal. To further secure the financial situation of the operating business, Norske Skog is in the process of receiving a commitment letter for a EUR 16 million liquidity facility from a substantial number of the holders of the SSN and NSF. "We are very pleased that key stakeholders are willing to support the business operations of Norske Skog through liquidity facilities like the offered loans. Our paper mills are highly competitive business units with a prosperous future irrespective of the final solution to the group's capital structure. We have now secured the operating business by both relief on interest payments and this new financing, and there should be no reason to question the stability of our operating business through the refinancing" said Lars P.S. Sperre, President and CEO of Norske Skog. Click Read More below for additional detail.

After several months of laboratory work by the Research and Development team in Bordeaux France, Tembec has developed a very high viscosity cellulose grade. Just days ago, the production of this new grade, called Biofloc XV20, took place at the Tartas Specialty Cellulose mill in France. It is a tremendous success because a new world record for viscosity of a wood pulp was achieved. Tembec, the world leader in specialty cellulose for use in the production of cellulose ethers, responded to the needs of its main customers. “This new product can now compete directly with cotton linter pulp and opens new opportunities for our customers,” said Christian Ribeyrolle, Executive Vice President of the Specialty Cellulose Group. “Our customers in this segment needed a replacement for cotton linter pulp by a product which is less affected by market cycles but is of equivalent quality. Biofloc XV20 is now part of our product portfolio.” Click Read More below for additional detail.

Harvesting wood for the needs of the bioproduct mill in Äänekoski started today, on 11 August 2017. Until now, wood has been delivered to the old pulp mill and for the test runs of the new mill. The bioproduct mill start-up will begin in mid-August 2017. Buying woodfor the bioproduct mill began already in 2016. Direct harvesting begins today with thinning in the forest of Metsä Group’s owner-member Timo Akselin in Uurainen, Central Finland. The harvesting at the stand was carried out by the Saarijärvi-based Forest-Linna Oy, and the transportation was taken care of by Kuljetus H & H Heinonen Oy, based in Multia. “The start-up of the bioproduct mill is drawing closer, and we can now start increasing the harvesting volumes,” says Juha Mäntylä, EVP, Wood Supply, Metsä Group. Harvesting volumes will increase gradually this and next year. The bioproduct mill will reach its nominal production of 1.3 million tonnes of pulp approximately a year after its start-up. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Irving Consumer Products is pleased to announce the expansion of its United States business operations with the construction of a new $400 million state-of-the-art tissue plant in Macon, Georgia. The new plant will create over 200 jobs and allow the company to double its ThruAir Dry capacity, increasing it by 75,000 tonnes, the equivalent of 15 million cases. “We’re pleased to be expanding our business in the United States. We’re excited by the opportunity in Macon and in Georgia. We’re looking forward to building a strong relationship with the wonderful people of this community,” says Robert K. Irving, President of Irving Consumer Products. “Selecting Macon for our new facility provides us with an opportunity to establish a footprint in a region that has proven itself as being a strong supporter of business. It will allow us to reach key markets, and will help to continue to drive our growth.” Mr. Irving further adds, “This expansion is possible because of the commitment of our employees, customers and suppliers. It is their support that has allowed us to grow and expand.” Click Read More below for additional detail.

Wood costs for the pulp industry in Europe were generally lower in the 1Q/17 than in the previous quarter, continuing a downward trend that, depending on the country, has lasted for 4-6 years. The biggest price declines for pulplogs and sawmill residues in early 2017 occurred in Germany and France, according to the Wood Resource Quarterly (WRQ). The price reductions occurred mainly because of an oversupply of pulplogs, unchanged demand for wood fiber from the pulp industry, and reduced usage of raw-material by the competing wood pellet sector. In neighboring Austria, conifer pulplog prices have been very stable during most of 2015 and 2016 (in Euro terms) and prices did not change much in the 1Q/17. However, the weakening of the Euro against the US dollar has resulted in Austrian pulplog prices falling seven percent in two years. In the Nordic countries, wood fiber costs in the 1Q/17 were at their lowest levels since 2006 (in US dollars). This was mostly thanks to the weakening of the local currencies in both Sweden and Finland. The wood fiber costs currently account for about 60% of the manufacturing cost when manufacturing pulp in the region, according to Fisher International, so a reduction in prices for pulplogs and wood chips has a major impact in improving the competitiveness of the pulp and paper industry when competing in the global market place. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Verso Corporation reported financial results for the second quarter of 2017, including net sales of $585 million, a net loss of $49 million, and adjusted EBITDA of $(4) million. "Despite a challenging second quarter in which profitability was hampered by lower volume and pricing, rising input costs and inventory reduction initiatives, Verso is building momentum toward significantly improved results in the second half of the year as we anticipate realization of price increases, continue to aggressively cut costs and profitably grow our specialty papers business," said Verso Chief Executive Officer B. Christopher DiSantis. "In addition, we've made substantial progress in evaluating Verso's long-term strategic options, which potentially include paper machine conversions to enable expansion or entry into growing markets, enhancements to current assets that support a more profitable product mix, and corporate development opportunities." Click Read More below for additional detail.

Mohawk, North America’s largest privately-owned manufacturer of fine papers, envelopes and specialty materials for commercial and digital printing is proud to announce the release of A Maker’s Field Guide to Envelopes, the latest in a series of comprehensive, printed guides designed to inspire and educate designers, their clients and printers on the importance of choosing the right materials for print. “The new Maker’s Field Guide to Envelopes is the latest expression of Mohawk’s ongoing commitment to helping demonstrate the pivotal role materials play in the success of every print job,” said Chris Harrold, Vice President, Creative Director, Mohawk. “Envelopes are equal part function and first impression. An envelope is like a handshake that simultaneously says ‘hello’ and ‘open me first!’” A Maker’s Field Guide to Envelopes was created by Aurora Design to complement Mohawk’s Maker’s Field Guide to Texture and Color and the Mohawk Maker Quarterly, an award-winning publication which highlights the beauty and tactility of fine paper. Both publications have become go-to resources for makers and creatives worldwide as print is rediscovered as a powerful alternative to digital communication. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Vancive Medical Technologies™, an Avery Dennison business, and Eloquest Healthcare®, Inc. have partnered to develop an innovative post-operative dressing that contains an antimicrobial agent called chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG). The antimicrobial properties of CHG inhibit microbial growth within the dressing. CHG is extremely difficult to incorporate in an absorbent adhesive dressing, making the development of the BeneHold™ CHG platform a significant technical accomplishment for Vancive. The Eloquest Healthcare ReliaTect™ Post-Op Dressings with CHG are the first to combine CHG in an absorbent, transparent and waterproof design. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Revenue in Q2 2017 was $314.4 million, compared to $295.8 million in Q2 2016, an increase of $18.6 million or 6.3%. The increase in revenue was primarily due to higher sales volume and the favourable impact of foreign exchange on U.S. dollar sales. Cost of sales in Q2 2017 increased to $267.1 million, compared to $249.9 million in Q2 2016, primarily due to higher sales volumes, an increase in fibre and natural gas prices and the unfavourable impact of foreign exchange on U.S. dollar denominated costs, as well as higher freight and warehousing costs, partially offset by cost reduction initiatives and the impact of capital projects. As a percentage of revenue, cost of sales were 85.0% in Q2 2017 compared to 84.5% in Q2 2016. Net income in Q2 2017 was $9.9 million, compared to $12.0 million in Q2 2016, primarily due to an increase in the change in amortized cost of Partnership units liability of $2.5 million and an increase in tax expense of $1.3 million. These increases were partially offset by higher Adjusted EBITDA of $1.4 million. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. and Tembec Inc. announced that the Québec Superior Court issued a final order approving the previously announced statutory arrangement under Section 192 of the Canada Business Corporations Act involving the acquisition by Rayonier Advanced Materials of all of the outstanding shares of Tembec. The Transaction has already received clearance from Germany’s Federal Cartel Office, and the United States Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission have notified Rayonier Advanced Materials and Tembec that the Hart-Scott-Rodino premerger notification waiting period was terminated. Applications for clearance from the applicable regulatory authorities in Canada and China, respectively, are pending. Subject to obtaining other necessary approvals, as well as the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to the Transaction, it is expected that the Transaction will be completed in the fourth quarter of 2017.

Rayonier Inc. reported second quarter net income attributable to Rayonier of $26.2 million, or $0.20 per share, on revenues of $194.7 million. This compares to net income attributable to Rayonier of $109.8 million, or $0.89 per share, on revenues of $261.6 million in the prior year quarter. The prior year second quarter results included $0.6 million of costs related to shareholder litigation1 and $101.3 million of income from a Large Disposition.2 Excluding these items, proforma net income3 was $9.1 million, or $0.07 per share, in the prior year period. Second quarter operating income was $46.9 million versus $121.6 million in the prior year period. The prior year second quarter operating income included $0.6 million of costs related to shareholder litigation1 and $101.3 million of income from a Large Disposition.2 Excluding these items, pro forma operating income3 was $20.9 million in the prior year period. Second quarter Adjusted EBITDA3 was $86.4 million versus $45.0 million in the prior year period. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Appvion recorded second quarter operating income of $5.1 million compared to operating income of $3.9 million for second quarter 2016. The improved earnings in second quarter 2017 were driven by volume growth for the Company's tag, label and entertainment (TLE) products and carbonless papers segment. Continued execution of profit improvement initiatives, improved manufacturing performance, and lower selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses also contributed to the earnings improvement. Those results were partially offset by the impact of lower net sales caused by lower market prices for the Company's thermal receipt paper and unfavorable product mix in the carbonless papers segment. Total company shipment volume was relatively flat compared to second quarter 2016. Appvion's second quarter 2017 net sales of $164.0 million were $9.6 million lower than second quarter 2016. Year-to-date net sales of $330.7 million were $23.4 million, or 6.6%, lower compared to the same period in 2016, largely as a result of lower prices for thermal paper products as well as lower shipment volume and unfavorable product mix. Total company shipment volume was down approximately 2% compared to first half 2016. Thermal shipment volume declined more than 3%, while carbonless increased less than 1%. Click Read More below for additional detail.

UPM Raflatac, one of the world's leading suppliers of self-adhesive label materials, has completed its acquisition of the assets of Irving, Texas-based Southwest Label Stock. Both parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price or other transaction details. This acquisition will allow UPM Raflatac to expand its reach in the Texas and the Southwestern U.S. label markets by being highly responsive and offering a wider range of its high-quality products with fast turnaround. UPM Raflatac is also excited to announce a continuation and expansion of Southwest Label Stock's well-known small roll service. With this service, UPM Raflatac customers will be able to purchase single rolls of laminate trimless at 2,500 feet, shipped in boxes throughout North America. Click Read More below for additional detail.

INTERFOR CORPORATION recorded net earnings in Q2’17 of $24.5 million, or $0.35 per share, compared to $19.7 million, or $0.28 per share in Q1’17 and $23.2 million, or $0.33 per share in Q2’16. Adjusted net earnings1 (which takes into account the effects of share-based compensation expense and non-recurring items) in Q2’17 were $28.7 million or $0.41 per share, compared to $22.7 million, or $0.32 per share in Q1’17 and $17.5 million, or $0.25 per share in Q2’16. Adjusted EBITDA1 for the second quarter, 2017 was $77.4 million (or $84.7 million excluding the impact from $7.3 million of softwood lumber duties expense), on sales of $511.4 million versus $60.3 million on sales of $456.8 million in Q1’17. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Orchids Paper Products Company reported results for the quarter ended June 30, 2017. The following tables provide selected financial results for second quarter 2017 compared to second quarter 2016 and first quarter 2017. Net sales decreased $1.0 million, or 2%. Major factors include: parent roll sales volume increased $3.7 million; converted-product sales volumes declined $2.3 million; and there was a decrease of $2.3 million in average converted-product prices, reflecting both the lower prices associated with new bids which became effective in 2017 and the product mix sold to a changing mix of customers. Cost of sales increased $4.4 million, or 13%. Standard cost of sales for parent rolls increased $2.4 million due to the much higher number of parent-roll tons sold. This leaves a $2.0 million, or 7%, increase in cost of sales that is primarily attributable to converted product sales. Major contributors to this increase include: start-up costs at Barnwell including additional direct labor and overhead, the liquidation of older higher-cost inventory, fiber and other material cost increases, labor usage, and health care cost increases. Additionally, the second quarter of 2016 benefited from the recovery of $1.1 million in business interruption insurance proceeds, which did not reoccur in 2017. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Suzano Papel e Celulose announces its consolidated results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 (2Q17). In the second quarter of 2017, the pulp segment continued to deliver solid results, driven mainly by strong and healthy demand from Asia. The commodity’s positive fundamentals once again supported successive price increases in all regions. The weaker BRL also had a positive effect on industry profitability. The paper segment remained pressured by Brazil’s caustic macroeconomic scenario. The Suzano Mais Program, which works to strengthen relations with agents at the end of the value chain, helped to enhance the profitability of the paper business. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE:KMB) today announced it has been ranked #1 in the consumer packaged goods category on Forbes' 2017 list of America's Best Large Employers. In addition, Kimberly-Clark was ranked #48 among the top 500 employers across all industries, up from #147 last year. The annual Forbes "America's Best Employers" rankings were compiled via an independent survey of 30,000 U.S. employees in 25 industries. Employees were asked how likely they were to recommend their company to friends and family, and which organizations they would choose in addition to their own. The survey also looked at benefits, workplace diversity, career development opportunities and recognition of employee performance.

Resolute Forest Products Inc. (NYSE: RFP) (TSX: RFP) today reported a net loss for the quarter ended June 30, 2017, of $74 million, or $0.82 per share, compared to a net loss of $42 million, or $0.47 per share, in the same period in 2016. Sales were $858 million in the quarter, down $33 million, or 4%, from the second quarter of 2016. Excluding special items, the company reported a net loss of $3 million, or $0.03 per share, compared to net income, excluding special items, of $2 million, or $0.02 per share, in the second quarter of 2016.

“I am pleased to report that during the past quarter Sappi delivered profits up 81% from a year ago, reduced debt by a further 17% (US$265 million) year-on-year. We also repaid US$400 million in bonds from cash reserves which will generate savings of approximately US$21 million per annum on our net interest charge. “Sappi’s third quarter is seasonally and historically its weakest quarter due to the slow-down in business activity during the Northern Hemisphere summer holiday period and Sappi’s choice to use this quarter to undertake major annual maintenance shuts. The past quarter’s earnings (EBITDA ex special items) at US$155 million where almost flat on a year ago. Higher volumes were offset by higher raw material prices and a stronger Rand/Dollar exchange rate.

"Each of our businesses delivered top line growth in the second quarter, overcoming currency headwinds and global capacity constraints as we ramp-up our new U.S. filtration capacity. Customer qualification of this filtration facility continues to progress well and start-up costs of $3 million in the quarter were in line with projections. Bottom line results also reflected a timing lag as we implement selling price increases to offset the rise in input costs in the first half of the year," said John O'Donnell, Chief Executive Officer. "With our strong financial position and continued success in targeted categories like filtration, performance materials and premium packaging, we remain confident about future investment opportunities for organic and strategic growth that can deliver value for our shareholders."

Georgia-Pacific continues to expand its corrugated packaging business with the acquisition of Ohio-based PAX Corrugated Products. PAX operates a corrugated sheet plant with more than 100 employees in Lebanon, Ohio. Terms of the deal are not disclosed. “Georgia-Pacific has had a working relationship with PAX Corrugated for many years so we knew their organization would be an excellent fit with the GP Corrugated team,” said Billy Medof, president – GP Corrugated. “The PAX team will continue to deliver quality products and service to their customers as they do today. Their graphics and converting proficiency will accelerate our growth in digitally printed sheets from our Digital Print Solutions business and their display capability will expand our growing display business.”

Boise Paper, a division of Packaging Corporation of America, was honored with the 2017 3M Supplier of the Year Award in recognition of the company’s contribution to improving 3M’s competitiveness. This year, 3M recognized 15 suppliers – among thousands in its global supply base – for world class performance in providing products and/or services. These suppliers were identified and rated based on strategic spend, contract compliance, actions taken to improve 3M’s relevance and overall supplier performance (quality, delivery, responsiveness, cost, technology roadmaps). An awards ceremony will be held Aug. 4 at the 3M Championship in Blaine, Minn. Click Read More below for more of the story.

Madison Paper Industries, a partnership of UPM and Northern SC Paper Corp., a subsidiary of The New York Times Company, concluded the sale of its hydro power facilities to Eagle Creek Renewable Energy, LLC, a hydroelectric power producer, based in Morristown, NJ, USA on 31 July 2017. The transaction was announced by Madison Paper Industries in April 2017.

UPM concluded the sale of its hydro power facilities in Steyrermühl, Austria to Energie AG, an energy infrastructure company located in Upper Austria on 31 July 2017. The transaction was announced in March 2017.

Appvion, Inc. has extended its Triumph® High-Speed Inkjet Paper line with the addition of four treated products: 9 pt. Triumph Treated Universal in rolls and sheets, 9 pt. Triumph Treated Ultra P in rolls, and 32 lb. Triumph Universal and Triumph Ultra P in rolls. “We continue to expand our portfolio of Triumph High-Speed Inkjet Papers to meet the ever-advancing demands of the inkjet printing industry,” states Scott Harman, Appvion’s director of digital products. “Appvion’s commitment is to add value to paper. With these product extensions, we are offering our customers added value through more high-quality, superior-performing paper choices—all which yield the excellent finish and vibrant color that provide exceptional results to meet their various application needs.” Click Read More below for additional details.

Glatfelter reported a net loss of $5.7 million, or $0.13 per share for the second quarter of 2017 compared with net income of $2.0 million, or $0.04 per diluted share in the second quarter of 2016. On an adjusted earnings basis, the loss for the second quarter of 2017 was $2.6 million, or $0.06 per share compared with adjusted earnings of $2.8 million, or $0.06 per diluted share, for the same period a year ago. Consolidated net sales totaled $387.3 million and $406.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. In the Composite Fibers and Advanced Airlaid Materials business units, net sales increased by 1.4% and 4.9%, respectively, on a constant currency basis. Specialty Papers’ net sales declined 8.6% in the quarter-over-quarter comparison. Click Read More below for additional details.

Klabin, Brazil's largest paper producer and exporter, the leading manufacturer of paper and board for packaging, corrugated board packaging and industrial bags, and the only company in Brazil to produce hardwood, softwood and fluff pulp in the same plant, registered its 24th consecutive quarter of growth in financial results. The company recorded adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) of R$595 million in the second quarter of 2017, which is 11% higher than in the same period in 2016. In the second quarter of the year, the company highlights in its balance sheet the strong and sustained performance of the Puma Unit which, after the annual maintenance shutdown at the end of March this year, concluded the ramp-up process and recorded pulp sales volume of 337,000 tons in 2Q17, 12% higher than in 1Q17.Of the total sales volume in the second quarter of this year, 252,000 tons were hardwood pulp and 85,000 tons were softwood and fluff pulp. Click Read More below for additional details.

As announced on 14 July 2017, the ad hoc committee of holders of the EUR 290 million senior secured notes and the holders of the EUR 100 million NSF loan notes due 2020 (the "NSF"), who hold approximately 46 per cent. of the group's financial indebtedness (excluding local facilities), have provided Norske Skog with a recapitalization proposal. The company has shared its views on the proposal with the SSN AHC and the NSF holders and the SSN AHC and the NSF holders have shared their proposal with other creditor groups. The company has also received a short-form term sheet from the SSN AHC and the NSF holders relating to the provision of (i) a short term Euro 15 million secured facility guaranteed by certain members of the group and (ii) a backstop guarantee facility to help support the operating business of the company's subsidiaries. The company is in the process of considering these financing proposals. To allow for the conclusion of the ongoing stakeholder discussions to be reflected, the company has also today announced that the deadline for the current exchange offers and consent solicitations has been further extended from 31 July 2017 to 11 August 2017. Click Read More below for additional details.

Effective with all new and existing orders with confirmed delivery dates of September 1, 2017 or later, Verso Corporation is increasing the transaction price of all #4 Web grades by $1.50/cwt USD/$1.93/cwt CAD. This includes, but is not limited to: Liberty® web; Balance® web; New Era® Matte; New Era® ThinBulk. The increase applies to all basis weights, bulks, finishes and related private label grades.

"Verso's focused product development and innovation initiatives have resulted in a portfolio of label and release liner papers that now includes more than 60 unique products, making it the largest offering in North America," said Verso President of Graphic Papers Mike Weinhold. "Verso's breadth of specialty products makes it easy for our customers to choose the paper that best fits their unique needs, and these paper selectors now make that selection easier than ever." "These paper selectors detail the light to heavyweight release liners and multipurpose to special application facestock papers Verso has developed for our customers' pressure sensitive laminating needs," said Ed Buehler, Vice President and General Manager of Verso's Specialty Papers business. "We've highlighted end-use applications, mill locations and specifications for many of our respected brands, all in one simplified printed piece that provides customers with a convenient guide to the right Verso specialty paper to meet their needs, no matter how complex the end-use application." Click Read More below for additional details.

Sonoma® Jet, a high-speed, digital coated inkjet matte paper, is now qualified for HP PageWide web presses through the ColorPRO Technology program. The Sonoma Jet coatings are optimized for HP’s high-speed, inkjet presses utilizing pigmented inks and will give printers outstanding ink holdout, as well as improved press speeds and performance. Available in 45#, 60# and 70# matte, the Sonoma Jet paper is ideal for book printing, personalized and variable print, inserts, and transactional, healthcare, and financial documents. The Sonoma Jet grade offers excellent opacity, printability, ink mileage, throughput and bindery efficiency which results in enhanced quality, higher speeds and lower costs for the printer. Contact your Midland Paper Sales Professional for additional information.

Domtar Corporation reported net earnings of $38 million ($0.61 per share) for the second quarter of 2017 compared to net earnings of $20 million ($0.32 per share) for the first quarter of 2017 and net earnings of $18 million ($0.29 per share) for the second quarter of 2016. Sales for the second quarter of 2017 were $1.2 billion. Excluding items listed below, the Company had earnings before items1 of $38 million ($0.61 per share) for the second quarter of 2017 compared to earnings before items1 of $20 million ($0.32 per share) for the first quarter of 2017 and earnings before items1 of $38 million ($0.61 per share) for the second quarter of 2016. Click Read More below for additional details.

Expera is rolling out its refreshed line of Glass-Gard Prime™ and Glass-Gard™ papers, highlighting a diverse portfolio of specialty paper products that span a variety of end-use applications. From highly technical glass applications, to offering protection in automobile manufacturing, tough conditions have met their match. “Glass-Gard Prime™ papers help prevent scratching and particle generation on the finished glass product, which are high priorities in technical glass manufacturing,” explained Robyn Buss, Vice President Sales and Marketing for Expera Specialty Solutions. “Expera has developed proprietary manufacturing processes to remove the components that cause flaws on a finished glass product.” Click Read More below for additional details.

Mercer International Inc. reported results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2017. Operating EBITDA* in the second quarter of 2017 increased by approximately 13% to $39.1 million from $34.7 million in the same quarter of 2016 but declined from $60.2 million in the prior quarter. In the current quarter, strong operating performance was partially offset by a large planned maintenance shut along with foreign exchange losses on foreign currency balances. In the current quarter, we had 22 days of annual maintenance downtime at our pulp mills compared to 21 days in the comparative quarter and no such downtime in the prior quarter of 2017. For the second quarter of 2017, we had a net loss of $2.1 million, or $0.03 per basic and diluted share, compared to a net loss of $4.2 million, or $0.07 per basic and diluted share, in the comparative quarter. In the prior quarter, we had net income of $9.7 million. Click Read More below for additional details.

Q2 2017 HIGHLIGHTS: •Adjusted earnings of $1.10 per diluted share, more than double Q2 2016. •Adjusted EBITDA of $165 million, $71 million higher than Q2 2016. •North Central benchmark OSB price averaged $330 per Msf, up 25% from Q2 2016. •Capacity utilization at Norbord's North American mills up 3% year-over-year. •Repaid $61 million in temporary drawings on accounts receivable securitization program. Click Read More below for additional details.

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. and Tembec Inc. announced that the holders of record of its common shares have approved the resolution authorizing the previously announced statutory arrangement under Section 192 of the Canada Business Corporations Act pursuant to which Rayonier Advanced Materials will acquire all of the outstanding common shares of Tembec. The Arrangement Resolution was approved by 95.04% of the votes cast by Tembec Shareholders at the special meeting held earlier today. The completion of the Transaction remains subject to approval by the Québec Superior Court at a final hearing, which is expected to take place on August 7, 2017. In addition to court approval, the Transaction remains subject to other closing conditions, including receipt of regulatory approvals. It is expected that the Transaction will be completed in the fourth quarter of 2017.

The changes include the shutdown of Paper Machine 24 (“PM24”) at the Company’s Chillicothe, OH facility, the elimination of approximately 50 affected hourly positions at the facility, and a reduction of 70 salaried positions across the business unit. The PM24 shutdown will remove approximately 80,000 tons, or 10%, of capacity from the Specialty Papers Business Unit and reduce the Chillicothe facility’s exposure to purchased pulp. The Company plans for production to be absorbed by the remaining seven paper machines in the business unit. “The supply-demand imbalance in the printing and writing markets continues to put pressure on industry operating rates and selling prices. In light of the challenging market conditions, we must aggressively manage costs by eliminating capacity without impacting our ability to service our customers. While these are difficult decisions, we must take the actions necessary to strengthen our Specialty Papers business and position Glatfelter for long-term success,” said Dante C. Parrini, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Click Read More below for additional details.

International Paper reported second quarter 2017 net earnings attributable to International Paper of $80 million ($0.19 per share) compared with net earnings of $209 million ($0.50 per share) for the first quarter of 2017 and net earnings of $40 million ($0.10 per share) in the second quarter of 2016. Net earnings in all periods include the impact of special items, if any, non-operating pension expense and discontinued operations. Adjusted operating earnings in the second quarter of 2017 were $270 million ($0.65 per share) compared with $249 million ($0.60 per share) in the first quarter of 2017 and $379 million ($0.92 per share) in the second quarter of 2016. Click Read More below for additional details.

Canfor Corporation reported net income attributable to shareholders of $81.3 million, or $0.61 per share, for the second quarter of 2017, compared to shareholder net income of $66.1 million, or $0.50 per share, for the first quarter of 2017 and a net income attributable to shareholders of $36.0 million, or $0.27 per share, for the second quarter of 2016. For the six months ended June 30, 2017, the Company’s shareholder net income was $147.4 million, or $1.11 per share, compared to $62.0 million, or $0.47 per share, for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The Company’s adjusted shareholder net income for the second quarter of 2017 was $104.2 million, or $0.78 per share, compared to an adjusted shareholder net income of $59.3 million, or $0.45 per share, for the first quarter of 2017, and adjusted shareholder net income of $26.5 million, or $0.20 per share, for the second quarter of 2016. Click Read More below for additional details.

Packaging Corporation of America reported second quarter 2017 net income of $143 million, or $1.52 per share and $1.52 per share excluding special items. Second quarter net sales were $1.6 billion in 2017 and $1.4 billion in 2016. Excluding special items, the $.27 per share increase in second quarter 2017 earnings compared to the second quarter of 2016, was driven primarily by higher prices and mix ($.25), sales volumes ($.09), and production volumes ($.03) in our Packaging segment, lower annual maintenance outage costs ($.05), lower taxes ($.06) and a partial insurance recovery related to the DeRidder Mill incident ($.02). These items were partially offset by higher costs for energy ($.06), fiber ($.05), labor ($.03) and chemicals ($.01), higher freight ($.02), interest ($.02), depreciation ($.02) and other expenses ($.01), and lower Paper segment prices and mix ($.01). Click Read More below for additional details.

Metsä Tissue will rebuild paper machine 5 at its Düren mill in Germany. The total investment is approximately EUR 15 million and the rebuild starts immediately. The new volumes will be available on the market during the last quarter of 2018. “We expect the demand for baking and cooking papers to continue to grow during the coming years. This investment will increase Düren mill’s paper production capacity by 10.000 tons, which will help us to secure our leading position as a global supplier of high-quality baking and cooking papers”, says Mariusz Jedrzejewski, SVP Baking & Cooking, Metsä Tissue. “We have production in Düren, Germany, and Mänttä, Finland, where we increased the production capacity in 2016. Both mills play a significant role in our Baking & Cooking business. Our products are made of fresh fibre, and the wood originates from sustainably managed Northern forests. This high-quality raw material combined with our strong production expertise result in high endurance and consistent high quality products.”

Consolidated sales for the three-month period ended June 24, 2017, were $419 million, as compared to $376 million in the same quarter a year ago. The Company generated net earnings of $17 million or $0.17 per share in the June 2017 quarter compared to net earnings of $9 million or $0.09 per share in the June 2016 quarter. Operating earnings before depreciation, amortization and other items (adjusted EBITDA) was $59 million for the three-month period ended June 24, 2017, as compared to adjusted EBITDA of $26 million a year ago and adjusted EBITDA of $54 million in the prior quarter. Click Read More below for additional details.

British Columbia-based Catalyst Paper Corp. projects that a $56 million investment in a tissue-making machine at its Rumford mill would support 62 full-time jobs. The Bangor Daily News reported that Catalyst has applied for a $25 million loan through the Finance Authority of Maine's Major Business Expansion and for $12.7 million in state tax credits or taxpayer cash through the state's New Markets Capital Investment program, to help finance the machine. Catalyst plans to put in $13.9 million of its own money into the project.

Resolute Forest Products Inc. announced the appointment of Patrice Minguez as president of the company's tissue group. This is a new role, reporting to Richard Garneau, president and chief executive officer. Patrice Minguez will serve as a member of Resolute's Executive Team and will oversee all tissue operations as well as sales and marketing functions. This includes the Atlas Tissue operations in Florida and the new state-of-the-art tissue and converting facilities at Calhoun, Tennessee. He will also be accountable for the company's Calhoun pulp and paper mill. Click Read More below for additional details.

Q2/2017 (year-on-year): • Sales of EUR 2 528 (EUR 2 526) million increased marginally despite the divestment of paper mills. • Sales excluding the paper business increased 7.1%. • Operational EBIT decreased from EUR 226 million to EUR 219 million. This was mainly due to the impact of higher maintenance costs of EUR 15 million compared to a year ago. The operational EBIT margin was 8.7% (8.9%). • Balance sheet strengthened further; net debt to operational EBITDA was 2.0 (2.2) despite a dividend payment. • The ramp-up of Beihai Mill continues to proceed ahead of plan, and it is expected to reach operational EBITDA break-even in Q4/2017, one quarter earlier than previously forecast. • Varkaus kraftliner mill is expected to reach full production during the second half of 2017. A positive quarterly operational EBIT was achieved in Q2/2017. • Stora Enso signed today an agreement to divest its holding in the equity accounted investment Bulleh Shah Packaging Ltd. to the main owner Packages Ltd. Q1–Q2/2017 (year-on-year): • Sales of EUR 5 025 million increased 1.1%. Sales excluding the paper business increased 8.3%. • Operational EBIT of EUR 434 million decreased 8.4%, mainly due to increased maintenance costs. Click Read More below for additional details.

The Association of Western Pulp and Paper Workers (AWPPW) has given Ponderay Newsprint the ten (10) days written notice of termination of the Labor Agreement. The Labor Agreement terminated in its entirety on July 24, 2017. The Company has continued to delay in meeting with the Union and has delayed in providing information that is relevant to the collective bargaining process. The Union believes that terminating the current labor agreement is an essential step in the direction of the Union's goal of achieving a new labor agreement. Termination of the Labor Agreement will provide the Union the opportunity to engage in an unfair labor practice strike to encourage the employer to bargain to an agreement in good faith. Click Read More below for more of the story.

Total European shipments of graphic papers in May 2017 were UP 3.8% vs. May 2016 and were down 1.2% year-to-date. Total European shipments of newsprint in May 2017 were down 1.9% vs. May 2016 and were down 4.7% year-to-date. Total European shipments of sc-magazine papers in May 2017 were UP 6.5% vs. May 2016 and were UP 3.1% year-to-date. Total European shipments of coated mechanical reels in May 2017 were UP 5.7% vs. May 2016 and were down 2.7% year-to-date. Total European shipments of uncoated mechanical (improved & others) in May 2017 were UP 4.9% vs. May 2016 and were UP 1.5% year-to-date. Total European shipments of coated woodfree papers in May 2017 were UP 10.0% vs. May 2016 and were UP 0.6% year-to-date. Total European shipments of uncoated woodfree papers in May 2017 were UP 2.0% vs. May 2016 and were down 0.7% year-to-date. Click Read More below for additional details.

Ahlstrom-Munksjö will release additional capacity at its Turin plant in Italy to meet the growing demand for engine and industrial filtration media. Fulvio Capussotti, Executive Vice President of Business Area Filtration and Performance, states: “This capacity increase aims at improving our current service level but also, more strategically, enables us to offer to our customer an industrial platform on which they can build on to further grow their business. The plan will include investments on selected assets, re organization of planning practices and additional staffing. This capacity release will be concluded at the beginning of 2018 and will significantly increase our ability to answer the current and future needs of our filtration customers”. Click Read More below for additional details.

Nordic Paper is a leading Swedish-based producer of kraft and greaseproof paper. Three of Nordic Paper’s mills are located in Sweden, and the fourth one in Norway. A China-based pulp and paper company, Anhui Shanying Paper Industry Co., LTD (“Anhui Shanying Paper”), has entered into an agreement to acquire 100 % of the shares in Nordic Paper Holding AB from Special Situation Venture Partner lll and Petek GmbH. Click Read More below for additional details.

In a letter today, Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Mike Enzi (R-WY), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) of the Senate Finance Committee urged Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to negotiate a softwood lumber trade deal with Canada that would lessen the harmful impact of subsidized Canadian lumber imports on the U.S. economy. The Senators' letter also expressed strong support for fair competition and the enforcement of existing U.S. trade laws. "The U.S. Lumber Coalition applauds the efforts by members of the Senate Finance Committee to push for a fair trade deal, especially the letter's provision calling for a clean quota agreement to hold Canada to its commitments and maintain a stable, enforceable system," U.S. Lumber Coalition spokesperson Zoltan van Heyningen said. Click Read More below for more of the story.

Q2 2017 highlights: • Comparable EBIT increased by 2% to EUR 270 million (264 million in Q2 2016). • Favourable market demand continued. • High maintenance activity and seasonally higher fixed costs impacted comparable EBIT by approximately EUR -20 million compared with Q2 2016, EUR -45 million compared with Q1 2017. • Solid operating cash flow at EUR 269 million (434 million). • Net debt decreased to EUR 1,046 million (1,876 million). • UPM announced new focused investments at the Kaukas pulp mill and Tampere labelstock factory. Click Read More below for additional details.

Avery Dennison Corporation announced preliminary, unaudited results for its second quarter ended July 1, 2017. Unless otherwise indicated, comparisons are to the same period in the prior year. “We continued to make good progress against our strategic and financial objectives in the second quarter," said Mitch Butier, Avery Dennison President and CEO. "LGM generated strong profitability despite a short-term moderation in organic growth; RBIS had a great quarter, with accelerated sales growth and margin expansion as our multi-year transformation delivers; and IHM continues to make progress against its strategic priorities, including the completion of two acquisitions. “We have raised our outlook for full-year earnings per share, reflecting continued strong operating performance and a reduction in the tax rate," said Butier. "We continue to remain confident that the consistent execution of our strategies will enable us to meet our long-term goals for superior value creation through a balance of profitable growth and capital discipline.” Click Read More below for additional details.

Executive Summary ◦Second quarter 2017 net sales of $4.6 billion decreased 1 percent compared to the year-ago period, as organic sales were down 1 percent. Organic sales fell 2 percent in North American consumer products, reflecting category softness, less promotion shipments and competitive activity. Outside North America, organic sales declined 3 percent in developed markets and rose 2 percent in developing and emerging markets. ◦Diluted net income per share for the second quarter was $1.49 in 2017 and $1.56 in 2016. Results were impacted by lower sales and input cost inflation, while the comparison benefited from cost savings. Second quarter adjusted earnings per share were $1.53 in 2016, which excludes items described later in this release. ◦Full-year 2017 net sales and organic sales are expected to be similar, or up slightly, year-on-year. The company's previous estimate was for sales and organic sales to be up 1 to 2 percent. ◦The company anticipates full-year 2017 earnings per share will be at the low end of its target range of $6.20 to $6.35. Click Read More below for additional details.

Financial review H1 2017: The Group's comparable net sales growth was 2% during the first half of the year with a positive contribution from all business segments. Comparable growth in emerging markets was 1%. Growth was strongest in Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia, while net sales declined significantly in India. The Group's net sales grew to EUR 1,511 million (EUR 1,414 million). Foreign currency translation impact on the Group's net sales was EUR 36 million (EUR -39 million) compared to 2016 exchange rates. The majority of the positive impact came from the US dollar, Russian ruble and Indian rupee, while the impact from pound sterling and certain emerging market currencies was negative. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. and Tembec Inc. announced that they have entered into an amendment to the arrangement agreement under which Rayonier Advanced Materials has agreed to acquire Tembec for an increased consideration valued at C$4.75 per Tembec share. The revised terms were unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies. Under the Amended Arrangement Agreement, Tembec shareholders will have the right to elect to receive either C$4.75 in cash or 0.2542 shares of Rayonier Advanced Materials common stock per Tembec common share, subject to proration so that approximately 67% of the aggregate consideration is paid in cash and approximately 33% is paid in Rayonier Advanced Materials common stock. The increased consideration represents a 17% increase in value offered for the shares compared to the initial terms and a premium of 61% to the closing price of Tembec’s shares on May 24, 2017, the day immediately before the initial announcement concerning the Arrangement. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Xerox (NYSE: XRX) announced today that its board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share on Xerox common stock. The dividend reflects the one-for-four reverse stock split that became effective on June 14, 2017. The dividend is payable on October 31, 2017 to shareholders of record on September 29, 2017.

According to the June 2017 Printing-Writing Monthly report from the American Forest & Paper Association, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased five percent in June compared to June 2016. All four printing-writing grades posted year-over-year shipment declines in June. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels increased one percent from May 2017. Shipments of coated free sheet (CFS) papers decreased 3% year-over-year in June following the increase last month. U.S. imports of CFS papers increased 25% year-over-year in May and exports of CFS papers increased 12% year-over-year in May.

Under the theme 'a grip on any challenge', Avery Dennison is launching an Advanced Adhesives portfolio that expands converters’ options with four new adhesive choices - including a clear non-yellowing hotmelt adhesive for chilled food applications; a reclosure adhesive with high solvent resistance for household wipes; a compostable adhesive for fruit and vegetable packaging; and a heat-activated adhesive for automotive textile labelling.

Tembec Inc. (TSX: TMB) ("Tembec" or the "Company") today provided an update in response to the recent public broadcast solicitation by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. ("Oaktree") in connection with the proposed acquisition (the "Arrangement" or the "Transaction") by Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. ("Rayonier AM") of all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Tembec (the "Tembec Shares").

Verso Corporation (NYSE: VRS) today announced plans to permanently shut down the No. 3 paper machine and associated equipment at its Androscoggin Mill in Jay, Maine, reducing annual coated paper production capacity at the mill by approximately 200,000 tons. The shutdown will be effective August 1 and is expected to be complete by the end of the third quarter of 2017. The No. 3 paper machine and a recovery boiler and digester that support it were idled in January of this year in response to declining customer demand that resulted in more coated paper capacity than could be filled. Most products made on the No. 3 paper machine were transitioned to lower-cost machines in other Verso mills.

Less waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, fewer workplace injuries. Less of each of these means a more sustainable business and highlights how Domtar Corporation (NYSE: UFS) (TSX: UFS) is working smart for the long term. The company released its 2017 Sustainability Report today, detailing the company’s endeavors to take a longer term view of creating and preserving value for our shareholders, customers, employees and communities.

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. (the “Company” or “Rayonier Advanced Materials”) (NYSE: RYAM) today reaffirmed its commitment to acquire Tembec Inc. (“Tembec”) (TSX: TMB) on the terms previously agreed with Tembec.

Containerboard production was 3.8 percent higher compared to June 2016. The month-over-month average daily production compared to May 2017 was 0.7 percent higher. The containerboard operating rate for June decreased from 99.3 percent to 96.3 percent, which was, however, 1.7 percent higher compared to June of last year.

Total boxboard production decreased 0.9 percent when compared to June 2016, and decreased 0.1 percent from last month. Unbleached Kraft Boxboard production decreased over the same month as last year and decreased compared to last month. Total Solid Bleached Boxboard & Liner production increased when compared to June 2016, and increased compared to last month. The production of Recycled Boxboard increased compared to June 2016, but decreased when compared to last month.

Cascades Inc. (TSX: CAS), a leader in the recovery and manufacturing of green packaging and tissue products, invites the media representatives to the official inauguration its new state-of-the-art, 284,000-square-foot tissue converting facility in Scappoose, Oregon .

Multi-Color Corporation ("Multi-Color") (NASDAQ: LABL) announces today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Labels Division of Constantia Flexibles ("Constantia Labels") from Constantia Flexibles GmbH ("Constantia Flexibles") for approximately $1.3 billion (€1.15 billion), payable in cash and stock.

International Paper Company (NYSE: IP) announced the election of Christopher M. Connor to its board of directors effective October 1, 2017. Mr. Connor, age 61, retired as Executive Chairman of The Sherwin-Williams Company in December of 2016. Mr. Connor joined The Sherwin Williams Company in 1983 and served as its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer from 2000 to December 2015. Mr. Connor is Chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, and serves on the board of directors for both Eaton Corporation plc. and Yum! Brands, Inc. He will be assigned to join the Board's Audit and Finance Committee and Management Development and Compensation Committee.

Tembec Inc. (TSX: TMB) (“Tembec”) announced today that Institutional Shareholder Services (“ISS”) has recommended that shareholders of Tembec vote FOR the proposed plan of arrangement (the “Arrangement”) involving the acquisition by Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. (“Rayonier AM”) of all of the outstanding shares of Tembec (the “Tembec Shares”). In connection with this recommendation, ISS noted that: "The proposed premium offer consideration provides shareholders with flexibility to participate in the growth opportunities associated with the combined business of increased size, scale and liquidity and/or to receive the consideration in the form of cash that provides immediate liquidity (subject to proration limits).

Weyerhaeuser Company today announced effective immediately the ban of all campfires on its lands in Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, Missoula, Sanders and Ravalli counties in Western Montana due to high fire danger. The ban will remain in effect until further notice.

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. and Tembec Inc. announced that they have received notification of clearance from Germany's Federal Cartel Office in connection with the previously announced proposed statutory arrangement under Section 192 of the Canada Business Corporations Act involving the acquisition by Rayonier AM of all of the outstanding shares of Tembec. Subject to obtaining the approvals of the holders of Tembec Shares and the Québec Superior Court and other necessary approvals and clearances, as well as the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to the Transaction, it is expected that the Transaction will be completed by the end of 2017.

Effective with all new and existing orders with confirmed delivery dates of August 12, 2017 or later, Verso Corporation is increasing the transaction price of all Specialty coated, uncoated and natural kraft (NK Series) grades by $2.50/cwt USD, including but not limited to the following product families: Flexible Packaging Papers: PointFlex™; PointMatt™; FlexPack Essential™; GlazeWrap, GlazeWrap A and GlazeWrap NK; GlazeBag and GlazeBag NK; PointWax™; PointWax™ Transfer; GlazeArmor™ and GlazeArmor™ NK. Technical Papers: Aspect® Pressure Sensitive Face Papers and Release Liner Papers; OptiLabel™; OptiPrime™; Sterling® Ultra C1S; UniTherm®; OptiTherm™; GlazeSil™ and GlazeSil™ NK; UniSil™; PointSil™; PointTrac™; PointGard™; GlazeTape™ and GlazeTape™ NK. Label and Converting Papers: Aspect® C1S C/S Label; Sterling® Litho C1S (100lb or less basis weights (3300ft2) web rolls); Sterling® Ultra C1S (100lb or less basis weights (3300ft2) web rolls); Reflections™; CraftPoint™; DuraPoint™; LithoPoint™; ProPoint™; OmniPoint™; Sterling® Metallizing; EcoPoint™. The increase applies to all basis weights (unless noted), bulks, finishes and related private label grades. Should you have any questions, please contact your Midland Paper Sales Professional. Thank you for your continued support.

For the past several weeks we have faced challenging market conditions, similar to our competitors. In response to the market, Port Hawkesbury Paper has decided to curtail production beginning at 7am on Sunday, July 16th and span through to 7am on Sunday July 23, 2017. No deliveries will be impacted as a result of the curtailment and we anticipate full operation for the balance of the year.

The Board of Norske Skogindustrier ASA has decided to extend the consent deadline for the ongoing recapitalization transaction and to postpone the publication of the second quarter financial report from 13 July until 23 August. The consent deadline has been extended from 12 July until 31 July 2017 (at 23:59 New York time). Norske Skog will use the period prior to the new expiration deadline to continue discussions with various creditors regarding its ongoing efforts to achieve the transactions contemplated by the exchange offer and consent solicitation memorandum. The Parent's Board of Directors will continue to follow and evaluate the situation thoroughly during such period. The publication of the second quarter report was postponed due to the significant uncertainty inherent in the ongoing recapitalization process.

UPM, the world's leading paper manufacturer, has launched a new innovation, UPM Impresse plus C, a pioneering SC paper custom-developed for coldset web offset printing. UPM Impresse plus C offers a smoother, glossier finish and a unique, magazine-quality result that sets new benchmarks in CSWO printing. The velvety finish and appealing texture enable superior-quality print reproduction characterised by intense colours and rich contrasts. This new innovation opens up a whole new range of business opportunities for CSWO printers, whilst also enabling more efficient utilization of press capacity. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Nippon Paper Industries launches "b7 Light", a new product in the "b7" series. The new product will be produced with the PM N4 and CM 4 at Nippon Paper Industries' Ishinomaki Mill in Japan. The "b7" series uses Nippon Paper Industries' unique bulking technology to produce well-textured coated paper that achieves low base weight and high paper thickness. The paper is available in 67g/m2, 77g/m2, 87g/m2 and 97g/m2 at 10g/m2 unit in terms of the base weight, and designed under a lineup concept similar to that of b7 TRANEXT in terms of paper thickness. Click Read More below for additional detail.

A smoldering fire at KapStone caused in an unknown amount of damage to mill’s biggest paper machine Tuesday. Crews from Longview Fire and Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue responded to a call of a smoldering fire at about 7:15 a.m. Tuesday morning at Paper Machine No. 10. By the time firefighters arrived, sprinklers had already doused much of the flames, but there was a small amount of smoldering from the burning machine, said Captain Randy Bradshaw of Longview Fire. Firefighters worked with KapStone crews to identify hot spots underneath the hood of the machine and on the roof, Bradshaw said. KapStone’s own emergency response team used the company’s hoses to put out the hot spots, Bradshaw said. Click Read More below for more of the story.

Avery Dennison Corporation announced the appointment of Gregory S. Lovins to senior vice president and chief financial officer, effective immediately. Mr. Lovins, 45, will be responsible for leading financial operations across Avery Dennison, and will also oversee the company's information technology group. Mr. Lovins has served as the company’s vice president and interim chief financial officer since March 2017 and has also been the company’s treasurer since August 2016. He has more than 20 years of experience with Avery Dennison, having served in various positions of increasing responsibility across the company, including global finance leadership for what is now the Label and Graphic Materials segment. Click Read More below for more of the story.

Norbord Inc. reported that its OSB mill in 100 Mile House, British Columbia has temporarily suspended production due to the wild fires burning nearby in the region and in order to comply with evacuation orders in the 100 Mile House and surrounding areas. At the time of evacuation, the mill was secure. At this time, Norbord is assessing the impact to its production schedule. All mill employees have been safely evacuated and no injuries have been reported. The 100 Mile House mill has a stated annual production capacity of 440 million square feet (3/8-inch basis).

In our continuing effort to provide best-in-class service to you on our core brands and our high performing items, we will no longer be replenishing select under-performing skus from our portfolio. The impacted items will be available while supplies last. Select skus in the following brands will be impacted: • ASTROBRIGHTS® Papers (13 sheet skus) • CAPITOL BOND® Papers (2 skus) • CLASSIC COTTON® Papers (3 sheet skus) • CORONADO® SST Papers (7 sheet skus) • CRANE’S BOND® Papers(1 sheet sku, 1 envelope sku) • CRANE’S CREST® Papers (2 sheet skus) • CRANE’S LETTRA® Papers (2 sheet skus) • ENVIRONMENT® Papers (3 sheet skus, 19 envelope skus) • EXACT® Brights Papers (4 sheet skus, 33 envelope skus) • EXACT® Index (2 sheet skus) • FOX RIVER SELECT® Papers (3 sheet skus, 33 envelope skus) • GILBERT® Cotton Papers (1 sheet sku) • HOWARD® Linen Papers (1 sheet skus) • NEUTECH® Papers (3 sheet skus, 33 envelope skus) ** The balance of the skus within these brands WILL continue to remain available. ** Please contact your Midland Paper Sales Professional for additional details.

A new page-turning promotional lookbook of unique surface design treatments — including arresting images, unconventional diecuts, spectacular printing and specialty techniques — has just been released by Neenah. The book is crafted on papers from The Design Collection, Neenah’s range of pearlized surfaces, unique textures and dramatic colors, inspired by Italy’s top fashion houses and America’s leading designers. “These are highly unique papers that naturally draw attention,” says Auburne Gahlman, Associate Brand Manager, Neenah. “With this lookbook, we set out to consider surface design in relation to these extraordinary papers. The result shows how conceptual aesthetics, through means such as line, texture, color, light, and patterning, can be alluring to both hand and eye.” Click Read More below for additional detail.

On June 30, 2017, Orchids Paper Products Company entered into Amendment No. 5 to its Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated June 25, 2015 by and among the Company, U.S. Bank National Association and the other lenders party thereto. The Credit Agreement Amendment, among other things, struck the fixed charge coverage for the period ended June 30, 2017, thereby also waiving a requirement for a Cash Reserve, as defined in the Credit Agreement, to be funded by that date. Covenants for future periods remain unchanged from the prior amendment. Additionally, the Company agreed not to make any dividend or other distribution payment with respect to its equity unless the Company has achieved a Leverage Ratio of less than 4.0:1.0 for two consecutive fiscal quarters and no Default or Event of Default (as defined in the Credit Agreement) exists or would exist following such payment. The amount and timing of dividend payments otherwise remains subject to the judgment and approval of the Board of Directors. Click Read More below for additional detail.

Stora Enso has decided to invest EUR 45 million in a new production unit for cross laminated timber (CLT) in connection with its Gruvön Mill in Sweden. The investment will further enhance Stora Enso’s position as a global provider of high quality engineered wooden elements and as a market leader in CLT. The production is scheduled to begin during the first quarter of 2019. The estimated yearly capacity of the production line will be approximately 100 000 m³ after ramp-up, subject to required approvals being in place. The investment is expected to generate annual sales of approximately EUR 50 million when run at full capacity and over time significantly exceed the Wood Products division’s profitability target, operational return on operating capital (ROOC) of 18%. Click Read More below for additional detail.

The Kotkamills group has been producing Saturating Base Kraft (laminating papers) in Tainionkoski, Imatra on Paper Machine 7 (PM 7) leased from Stora Enso Oyj since the separation of Kotkamills from Stora Enso in 2010. The operations are part of the Group’s Industrial Products segment. Stora Enso Oyj has notified Kotkamills Oy that the leasing agreement concerning Tainionkoski PM7 will be terminated in accordance with its terms to expire at the end of 2018. Click Read More below for additional detail.

UPM has signed a contract to sell forest estates to Silvestica Green Forest Finland Oy. The contract covers 6,877 hectares of forestry land located in Kajaani, Sonkajärvi and Sotkamo in Finland. In addition, the parties have signed a separate long-term wood purchase and forest management agreement. Silvestica Green Forest Finland Oy is committed to certify the estates according to FSC® and to join the UPM managed FSC group certificate (FSC C 109750). For the time being the estates are PEFCTM certified. The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price. Silvestica Green Forest Finland Oy is owned by a Swedish company Silvestica Green Forest AB, which is an investment fund for institutional investors founded in spring 2017 by SEB, the leading Nordic financial services group. Silvestica owned companies will invest in forest estates in Sweden, Finland and the Baltic countries. The forests will be managed by CRK Forest Management AB with CEO Rickard Lehmann in charge of forest activities and reporting to investors. Click Read More below for additional detail.

As a leader of innovative solutions in the specialty paper industry, Expera has continued to customize its line of food packaging and processing papers with its newly launched brand Prepera™ Food Processing Papers. Expera’s Prepera™ Papers keep individual food slices neatly separate and wrapped, while easily releasing from products that have been vacuum packaged, frozen, or thawed. Offering a breadth of performance options, Expera produces layout sheets for raw and pre-cooked applications as well as paper-based solutions designed to address a variety of needs in today’s refrigerated and frozen food categories. “Prepera™ papers are used in a wide variety of applications and they have the flexibility necessary for unique and demanding applications,” said Robyn Buss, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Expera. “Whether it’s bacon layout, or an interleave application for cheese or meat, these papers are safe, sustainable, and provide the food release properties necessary for all types of performance.” Click Read More below for additional detail.

The Heinzel Group has now initiated its next strategic initiative in the packaging paper segment. This will see the installation of a second large paper machine for the production of bleached kraft papers at the Zellstoff Pöls AG location in Austria. So-called MG papers are employed for flexible packaging and demonstrate above-average market growth. Kurt Maier, the Heinzel Holding CEO: “Using the new machine, we will be able to manufacture 200,000 tonnes of MG papers annually at the Pöls location. With pulp production in Pöls being expanded at the same time, this has only marginal impact on our annual market pulp capacity of 400,000 tonnes. Following our recent investments at our Raubling and Laakirchen mills, the Pöls project represents another step forward on our packaging paper segment path.” Click Read More below for additional detail.

Do you ever wonder why there are so many different types of vinyls? If you go to the Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions website you will see that we have two specific lines of media. One is the Digital line and the other is our Screen & Cut line which includes the Supreme Wrapping films and Conform Chrome series of films. Some of you may be wondering what the difference is, so in this blog post I will give a brief explanation of each and why you would use one over another. The Screen & Cut line is our oldest product line and dates back to the time when films were only screen printed, thermal transfer printed, or plotter cut. Within this line, we have our cast opaque, metallic, ultra-metallic and translucent films. We also have intermediate and economy calendered films as well as reflective products. In the last few years, we have added our very popular Supreme Wrapping Film 900 series (SW 900) which is a 3.2 mil cast film designed for color change wraps and the Conform Chrome films, which is a 5.7 mil chrome film material, designed primarily for vehicle accents and is frequently used for wraps.

On the occasion of the re-start of Paper Excellence’s Chetwynd pulp mill, the media-shy company opened up a bit in an interview with Business in Vancouver. “Many pulp manufacturers look at the pulp industry [to be in] sunset,” Chang told the magazine. “Paper Excellence, our vision is different. We look at it as sunrise. We will be here for a century – as far as Asia continues emerging.” Paper Excellence does have the benefit of selling its pulp to APP mills, not on the open market, so it is not as vulnerable to pulp price fluctuations, Chang explained.