"This acquisition is a key step in our ongoing approach to strengthening Canfor's fiber position in British Columbia and deepens our ability to meet the needs of our valued global customers," said Canfor President and CEO Don Kayne. "We are very pleased to have worked with Tembec President and CEO Jim Lopez in advancing the strategic objectives of both companies."
Over the next few years, Canfor intends to make capital investments in excess of $50 million to enhance productivity and cost performance in its B.C. Southern Interior mill facilities. The Elko and Canal Flats mills will provide an additional 420 million board feet to Canfor's annual capacity, bringing Canfor's total capacity in North America to greater than 5 billion board feet.
"Canfor is not only acquiring mills and fiber supply in this agreement, but also a talented employee and contractor group" said Don Kayne. "We expect to continue Tembec's legacy of strong community and First Nations relationships. Canfor is readying itself to supply the growing demand from Asia Pacific markets that we, the Province of British Columbia, and the Government of Canada have worked so hard to build, as well as key strategic customers in North America. Our decision to make a significant new investment in British Columbia is premised on the province's stable, cost-conscious policy environment and exceptional commitment to market development."
Canfor expects to engage with the Forest Stewardship Council in relation to maintaining FSC certification of the forest tenures. When that process is complete, the company will have fiber certified to all three major North American forest certification systems, including the Canadian Standards Association, Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and Forest Stewardship Council.
TAPPI
http://www.tappi.org/