Metso Paper acquires AFT's Optimum Screw Press technology

Published Nov 27, 2007 09.00.00 +2 GMT

Metso Paper and Advanced Fiber Technologies (AFT) have on November 26, 2007, entered into an agreement for the purchase of AFT's Optimum Screw Press technology and business.

The Optimum Screw Press technology is used in the field of mechanical pulping and recycled fiber, and complements Metso Paper's scope of offering, especially in the aftermarket business. In addition to all assets and intellectual property, the transaction will result in the transfer of three key employees from AFT to Metso Paper in Montreal, Canada.

AFT, owned by the Japanese Aikawa Group, is a global leader in providing pulp screening components and systems.

Metso is a global engineering and technology corporation with 2006 net sales of approximately EUR 5 billion. Its more than 26,000 employees in more than 50 countries serve customers in the pulp and paper industry, rock and minerals processing, the energy industry and selected other industries. www.metso.com

For further information please contact:

Mika Tolvanen Senior Vice President, Process Services, Fiber business line Tel. +358 40 758 8756, mika.tolvanen@metso.com

Bill Bohn Area Vice President, North America, Fiber business line Tel. +1 404 394 5924, bill.bohn@metso.com