Norske Skog to start production of book paper

Norske Skog Skogn will enter the European book paper market in the second quarter of 2026. The new product, branded NOR Book, will be available in standard grades with specific characteristics in bulk, brightness, and shade. A net investment of EUR 3.5 million in PM1 will enable flexible production between newsprint and book paper, with a total capacity exceeding 140,000 tonnes.

Together with the international technology group ANDRITZ, Norske Skog Skogn has developed a low-capex solution to facilitate dual production of newsprint and book paper on PM1. Several successful trial runs have already been completed. Following the transition to 100% virgin fibre at Skogn in 2024, the mill is now able to produce bulky and bright grades by utilizing its high-quality thermomechanical pulp. The project will also allow further increases in paper bulk to meet the requirements of all main wood-containing book paper grades. Additionally, customers will benefit from industry-leading low CO₂ emissions by choosing paper produced at 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 a 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 becoming a top-three supplier of book paper in Europe,” says Geir Drangsland, CEO of Norske Skog.

Implementation of the project will not affect newsprint deliveries from the Skogn mill. Entry into the book paper market will begin gradually from the second quarter of 2026, resulting in reduced newsprint volumes to export markets in Asia. European market demand for wood-containing book paper has remained stable at approximately 400,000 tonnes per year.