M-real invests in sheeting operations at the Äänekoski paper mill

M-real Corporation Press release on 29 March 2010
 
M-real invests in sheeting operations at the Äänekoski paper mill
 
M-real will invest approximately EUR 6 million in sheeting operations at the
Äänekoski paper mill. The investment will increase the sheeting capacity as well
as modernize the conversion process and improve package quality. The investment
project will be completed during the first half of 2011.
 
"This investment decision is a confirmation on both parties' belief in long term
cooperation between M-real and Sappi. The investment improves the Äänekoski
paper mill's competitiveness as a high quality coated fine paper production
unit," says Mikko Helander, CEO of M-real.
 
"This investment strengthens the high quality status of the Galerie Art brand in
the market and clearly improves our customer service. Galerie Art has performed
very well and plays a key role in Sappi's product portfolio. The Äänekoski paper
mill is also very well located to supply the fast growing Eastern Europe
markets," continues Berry Wiersum, CEO of Sappi Fine Paper Europe.
 
M-real sold Graphic Papers business area to Sappi Limited at the end of 2008. As
part of the transaction the Äänekoski paper mill remained in M-real's ownership
and continued Galerie Art production for Sappi under a long-term contract.
 
M-REAL CORPORATION
 
For further information, please contact:
 
Matti Mörsky, CFO, tel. +358 10 465 4913
Juha Laine, Vice President, Investor Relations and Communications, tel. +358
10 465 4335
 
[HUG#1398717]