Sappi’s 2021 Sustainability Report is available!

Verso Corporation announced that it has entered into a definitive merger agreement under which BillerudKorsnäs AB will acquire all of the outstanding shares of Verso for a purchase price of $27 per share in cash, or approximately $825 million1. Verso's Board of Directors, acting upon the recommendation of a special committee of Verso's Board, has unanimously approved and resolved to recommend approval of the merger by Verso's shareholders. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2022. The acquisition of Verso is fully in line with BillerudKorsnäs' strategy to drive profitable growth in paperboard, and the ambition to expand into North America. BillerudKorsnäs aims to build one of the most cost-efficient and sustainable paperboard platforms in North America by converting several of Verso's assets into paperboard machines while maintaining Verso's position as a quality and cost leader in specialty and coated freesheet paper.

Bain Capital Private Equity, a leading global private equity firm, through Fedrigoni Holding Ltd, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Gruppo Cordenons, a leading international manufacturer of high end specialty papers for luxury packaging and premium publishing applications. The transaction remains subject to customary regulatory approvals, as the company says in the press release received by Lesprom Network. Gruppo Cordenons will be acquired and managed as an independent company. However, over time, Fedrigoni Group shareholders see a significant opportunity to share best practices, increase operations know-how and improve service and innovation by strengthening its range of high value-added special papers and key relationships with customers, supplemented by a brand that is widely recognized on international markets, where Gruppo Cordenons generates almost 70% of its turnover. Click Read More below for additional information.

Canfor Corporation announced the completion of the subdivision and sale of its Forest License in the Mackenzie Timber Supply Area (TSA) equally to the McLeod Lake Indian Band and the Tsay Keh Dene Nation. “Building on our long-standing relationships, Canfor is pleased to have reached this arrangement that will expand the Nations’ participation in the forest economy and stewardship of forest resources in the region,” said Stephen Mackie, Executive Vice President North American Operations. “We believe this agreement will support improved fibre access in the TSA and generate significant economic benefits for local and regional communities.” Total proceeds from this tenure sale and the previously announced disposition of associated Mackenzie sawmill assets are $69 million.