While there are reports of downtime and diminished warehouse stocks, this past month has recorded the most Capital Spending, by project size and number of projects, than Paperitalo Publications has recorded in its history.

Financing costs are high, and demand is down in some key grades. These short-term issues usually drive capital decisions. At least they have for the last fifty plus years.

Speculation on the reasons for this anomaly...

Mills are optimistic about long term viability and vigor of existing grades.

Mills want to take advantage of suppliers looking at thin, long term order books, grabbing purchase contracts before equipment prices rise further.

Mills want to assure continued market share leadership by planning for future capacity now.

Besides this, we have nothing else. Your comments are welcomed.

Jim Thompson is CEO of Paperitalo Publications.