Fedrigoni to acquire French mill (printweek.com)

Kotkamills, a manufacturer of fully recyclable food service board, is currently exploring the possibility of establishing its own sales office in the North America. The launch of production in the still growing North American food packaging market is also being explored. “There is great interest in our products as alternatives to replace plastic also in North America, and by establishing a sales office we are pursuing growth in these huge markets. By operating close to the markets we can improve our customer service and, when needed, growth is supported by production built or acquired close to the markets. Starting our own production in North America is a vision, and the first steps in exploring it have already been taken,” says Kotkamills CEO Markku Hämäläinen.

Billerud announces that Kevin Kuznicki, President, Billerud North America and member of the Group Management Team, is leaving the company to pursue other ventures, effective 14 June 2024. The recruitment process for the successor to the position will start immediately. “I would like to express a big thank you to Kevin Kuznicki for his contributions since taking over the role in March 2023. He has been a key person in guiding the North America operations during a challenging year for the company and we wish him all the best for the future,” says Ivar Vatne, President and CEO of Billerud. Tor Lundqvist, Deputy President and Senior Vice President of Operations for North America will assume the role of Acting President, Billerud North America until a successor is appointed.

Resolute Forest Products Inc. reported net income of $87 million, or $1.11 per diluted share, for the quarter ended September 30, compared to net income of $80 million, or $0.99 per diluted share, in the same period in 2021. Sales were $974 million in the quarter, an increase of $157 million from the year-ago period. Excluding special items, the company reported net income of $85 million, or $1.08 per diluted share, compared to net income of $67 million, or $0.84 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2021. The company reported operating income of $124 million in the quarter, compared to $217 million in the second quarter. The $93 million reduction reflects lower realized prices in wood products ($185 million), partially offset by higher prices in the pulp, paper and tissue segments ($48 million), higher shipments in wood products ($40 million) and lower manufacturing costs ($12 million). The company also recorded higher selling, general and administrative expenses ($17 million), reflecting a higher share-based compensation expense and costs incurred in relation with the acquisition by the Paper Excellence Group.