In a statement released last week, the packaging and speciality paper manufacturer said the current upgrade and modernisation project would focus on Paper Machine 11 (PM11).

It will undergo “extensive modernisation of automation and electrical equipment including drives, control systems, quality control and inspection systems as well as upgrades to the coating profile and other areas”.

During the preparatory phase this month and the main period of work in January, production on PM11 will be interrupted “for a number of weeks”.

Some interruption will also occur on PM9, Sappi said, due to the need for a reorganisation of internal logistics.

Given current market conditions of reduced demand and high customer inventories, Sappi Europe said it does not expect customer business to be disrupted during the project period.

“This investment will improve and consolidate Gratkorn’s position as the leading producer of woodfree coated paper and demonstrates Sappi Europe’s continuing commitment to the commercial print business and belief in the continued important role of print media,” the company stated.

The Gratkorn mill has received regular investment, including the upgrade of PM9 in 2019.

In September the business had flagged up that it was set to extend capacity at Gratkorn while temporarily reducing capacity at its Carmignano mill in Italy.

In the same month Sappi revealed that it had agreed a deal with Aurelius to sell its Maastricht Mill in the Netherlands, Stockstadt Mill in Germany, and its Kirkniemi Mill in Finland.

Sappi Europe is a division of Sappi Ltd (JSE), headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa.