Norske Skog Skogn will enter the European market for book paper during the
second quarter of 2026. The new product, branded NOR Book, will be offered in
standard qualities pertaining to bulkiness, brightness, and shade. The net
investment of NOK 40 million at paper machine one (PM1) will provide flexibility
to switch between newsprint and book paper with capacity of more than 140 000
tonnes.
Norske Skog Skogn has together with the international technology group ANDRITZ
developed a low capex project to enable production of both newsprint and book
paper at PM1. Several trial runs have been completed with satisfying results.
Following the switch to 100% virgin fibre at Skogn in 2024, the mill has the
opportunity to produce bulky and bright paper utilising its high-quality
thermomechanical pulp. The project will provide the opportunity to further
increase paper bulk to cover the main grades of wood containing book paper. In
addition, the customers will benefit from industry leading low CO2 emissions
when choosing paper from the Skogn mill.
"The project development team at Skogn has shown impressive creativity and
entrepreneurial spirit. This will diversify the mill's product portfolio, enable
a shift into markets with stable demand outlook, and improve the long-term
competitiveness of the mill. We have received very positive feedback from
potential customers and look forward to introducing our new product and become a
top three supplier of book paper in Europe" says Geir Drangsland, CEO of Norske
Skog.
Execution of the project will not have any impact on newsprint deliveries from
the Skogn mill. Entry into the book paper market will start gradually from the
second quarter of 2026, which will result in reduced newsprint volumes to export
markets in Asia. The European market demand for wood-containing book paper has
remained stable at approximately 400 000 tonnes per year.
About Norske Skog
Norske Skog is a leading producer of publication paper and packaging with four
high quality industrial sites, strong market positions, and close customer
relations in Europe. Norske Skog aims to further diversify its operations and
continue its transformation into growing and high margin markets through a range
of promising development projects. The Group has approximately 1 700 employees,
is headquartered in Norway, and listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the
ticker NSKOG.
For further information:
Norske Skog media:
Vice President Corporate Communication and Public Affairs
Carsten Dybevig
carsten.dybevig@norskeskog.com
Mob: +47 917 63 117
Norske Skog capital markets:
Senior Vice President Corporate Finance
Even Lund
even.lund@norskeskog.com
Mob: +47 906 12 919