International Paper to Cease Uncoated Paper Production at Pensacola Mill This Spring

PENSACOLA, Fla.—International Paper announced it will discontinue production of uncoated paper at its Pensacola, Fla. Mill in April or May of this year to begin the conversion of its 350,000-ton-per-year uncoated paper machine to a 500,000-ton-per-year lightweight linerboard machine.

Originally, International Paper planned to cease uncoated paper production in July 2007 at the Pensacola mill, but the company moved up the date to provide adequate time to complete the conversion and provide for an on-schedule startup of lightweight linerboard production this fall.

“This timeline will enable our conversion teams to complete equipment changes and employee training while delivering the project on schedule at the lowest possible cost,” said International Paper senior vice president Wayne Brafford. “As we move forward, we are working closely with employees and customers to ensure a smooth transition of the mill into a globally competitive lightweight linerboard facility.”

The machine conversion at Pensacola is part of International Paper’s transformation plan to focus on its global uncoated papers and packaging businesses, as well as xpedx, its North American distribution business. The company is realigning its North American mill system to increase operational efficiencies and to redeploy capital to the most competitive, lowest-cost facilities.