Sep 2 2009
UPM, the world's leading producer of graphic papers, has signed an exclusive, multi-year agreement with xpedx, the largest supplier of paper to commercial printers in the United States. The agreement makes xpedx the exclusive merchant supplier of UPM coated freesheet sheet fed (SFO), coated freesheet web (HSWO) and other UPM coated papers to commercial printers in the U.S. and Canada.
"xpedx customers in the United States and Canada will immediately benefit from improved access to all UPM chain-of-custody certified coated papers," said Rob Watson, Director of Marketing-Printing Papers, xpedx. "We know that strong demand exists for these high quality UPM products, and that all customers-particularly customers with multiple locations across the country-will appreciate increased availability through hundreds of xpedx locations."
"The agreement with xpedx will significantly strengthen UPM's position in the North American paper market and contributes to our continuing role as a vital player in this region," said Ruud van den Berg, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing for UPM's Paper Business Group. "We are pleased to be associated with xpedx, a company that shares UPM's dedication to quality products, an efficient and reliable supply chain and superior customer service. Customers of xpedx will benefit from accessibility to certified and sustainable UPM paper products."
The paper stock being supplied to xpedx will be available immediately through the xpedx multi-channel distribution network that includes more than 230 distribution centers and stores, xpedx.com and corporate, national and global account platforms.
The origin of all UPM paper will be ensured with the internationally-recognized standards of PEFC or FSC. These standards ensure that 100% of fibre used for UPM's pulp and paper products is from forests that are managed sustainably. The chain-of-custody model used by UPM and xpedx meets the requirements of both FSC and PEFC. All UPM paper imported from Europe will also carry the European Union's Eco-label, the official EU mark awarded to greener products.