Speaking at a conference at the Düsseldorf trade show, M-real chief executive Mikko Helander said there was no doubt Europe “urgently needs price increases”.

M-real has raised the price of its coated magazine papers between 6-8 per cent due to cost inflation and unsatisfactory profitability.

Helander said he expects all responsible players in Europe to also raise prices and that it was “very obvious” there would be further industry consolidation.

The company will also curtail its coated fine paper production between June and August, which is expected to have no effect on staff.

Stora Enso has also announced price increases of between 7-8 per cent on magazine papers at Drupa.

Sales director for publication papers Hans-Joachim Riesen said: “We’re increasing the price of magazine paper because consumption is very high.”

Read the original article at www.printweek.com.

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