June 17, 2026 - Stora Enso today said that it is investing EUR 19 million to increase the production of fluff pulp at its Skutskär pulp mill in Sweden.
This announcement follows the company's decision to permanently close softwood pulp production on fiberline 3 (L3) at the mill.
The investment funds upgrades that will enhance production stability and efficiency, improve quality, enable future fiber blends, and increase fluff production capacity by about 10%.
The investment is expected to be completed during the fourth quarter of 2027 and falls within Stora Enso's capital expenditure guidance.
"This is an important step for Stora Enso. Fluff pulp usage is growing, based on aging population across the globe and increased usage of hygiene products and with demand expected to outgrow supply over time," explained Johanna Hagelberg, Executive Vice President, Biomaterials Business Area at Stora Enso.
"In line with our strategy, we are shaping our business for accelerated growth and value creation by serving demanding customers," Hagelberg added.
The L3 softwood pulp line will cease production during the third quarter of 2026, subject to fulfillment of customer orders.
Timo Tidenberg, Head of Stora Enso's Business Unit Skutskär, said, "Market conditions did not support a viable path for the future of L3. This investment sharpens our focus on fluff and the work to restructure the organisation accordingly continues. We are positioning Skutskär strategically for long-term competitiveness in the expanding fluff market."
After the capacity increase, Stora Enso's Skutskär site will have the capacity to produce 440,000 tons per year of fluff pulp.
Stora Enso is a global leader in renewable materials with a strong focus on packaging. The company designs and delivers competitive, high-quality packaging materials and solutions made from fresh and recycled fibers.
SOURCE: Stora Enso