Sylvamo advances USD 145 million investment program at Eastover operations
Sylvamo announced continued progress on USD 145 million in strategic investments at its Eastover mill and Sumter sheeting operations in South Carolina, United States. The projects are focused on improving long-term efficiency, increasing production flexibility, reducing operating costs and expanding capacity at the Eastover mill, which Sylvamo describes as one of the most competitive uncoated freesheet paper mills in the world.
The largest investment within the programme is a USD 100 million project involving optimisation and speed upgrades for the No. 2 paper machine at the Eastover mill. Most of the work is scheduled to take place during an extended maintenance shutdown planned for the fourth quarter of 2026. Once completed, the project is expected to improve operational flexibility, optimise product mix across both paper machines and increase annual uncoated freesheet production capacity by approximately 60,000 short tons.
Sylvamo is also investing USD 45 million in a new 13-pocket cutsize sheeter at its Sumter sheeting plant in South Carolina. The company stated that the new generation sheeter will be capable of processing larger paper rolls, increasing productivity and improving operational efficiency. Testing of the equipment is currently under way at the manufacturer’s facilities, while installation is expected to take place alongside the paper machine optimisation project. The new sheeting equipment will improve flexibility, lower production costs and enhance customer service capabilities.
As part of the broader investment programme, Sylvamo also entered into a 20-year partnership to outsource woodyard operations at the Eastover mill. The company stated that the hardwood processing line entered operation on 1 May 2026 and is already delivering benefits through improved chip quality and higher yield performance. Work on the softwood processing line remains on schedule for start-up during the first quarter of 2027.
Strengthening Eastover’s competitive position
“Eastover is one of the largest, lowest-cost producers of uncoated freesheet in North America, and these strategic investments further strengthen its competitive advantage,” said John Sims, Chief Executive Officer of Sylvamo. “Our aim is to create lasting value, and these high-return projects position us to deliver world-class performance and generate stronger earnings and free cash flow.” Sylvamo confirmed that all projects remain on track for completion during 2027.
About the Eastover operations
Sylvamo’s fully integrated Eastover mill produces more than 90% of its energy internally and employs over 800 people. The operation supports more than 5,000 related jobs in the region.
The mill manufactures uncoated freesheet paper used for office paper, envelopes, folders, forms and notebooks, including brands such as Hammermill®, HP Home & Office and Williamsburg.
The associated Sumter sheeting plant, located approximately 30 miles from the mill, employs more than 100 people.
