Helsinki, Finland 08 June 2016 -- The investment will enhance Skutskär Mill's profitability and long-term competitiveness by increasing fluff production by approximately 160 000 tonnes annually. The mill's softwood capacity is expected to be reduced by 160 000 tonnes, starting from year 2018. The total fluff pulp capacity of the mill after the investment will amount to 415 000 tonnes.

The investment supports Stora Enso's strategy of transforming into a customer-focused renewable materials growth company. The aim is to develop further the current market pulp business and to focus more on growth segments.

"Both hygiene and non-woven products are a fast-growing market. This investment will enable us to support the growth of our customers and further develop this business together with them," says Juan Carlos Bueno, EVP, Stora Enso's Biomaterials division.

The investment is expected to be completed during the second quarter of 2018, and it falls within the group's capital expenditure guidance given earlier. The investment includes the necessary changes to one of the drying machines.

Stora Enso's Skutskär Mill produces Northern bleached kraft softwood pulp (NBSK), softwood fluff pulp and bleached hardwood pulp (birch). The total annual capacity of the mill is 540 000 tonnes. The fluff pulp is mainly used in airlaid hygiene products such as diapers, feminine care products and adult incontinence products. It is also used in tabletop products and wipes.

Stora Enso is a leading provider of renewable solutions in packaging, biomaterials, wooden constructions and paper on global markets. Our aim is to replace fossil based materials by innovating and developing new products and services based on wood and other renewable materials. We employ some 26 000 people in more than 35 countries, and our sales in 2015 were EUR 10.0 billion. Stora Enso shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki (STEAV, STERV) and Nasdaq Stockholm (STE A, STE R). In addition, the shares are traded in the USA as ADRs (SEOAY) on the International OTCQX over-the-counter market.