Norwell, MA) April 30, 2003…In a recently published research report, CAP Ventures analysts examine the North American cut size paper market. The document enables readers to forecast future growth rates, pinpoint key growth segments, and identify trends and developments in the industry. The results of the study have been published in a CAP Ventures research report entitled North American Cut Size Survey Results and Market Trends: 2001, which is available for immediate purchase through CAP Ventures' online publication store at www.capv.com/pubs. “With increased competition and severe consolidation, paper mills face new challenges every day,” commented Merilyn Dunn, a Director at CAPVentures. “Our research report is designed to aid paper mills and related industries in understanding and meeting these new challenges.” CAP Ventures’ research is structured in two sections. The first section shows the North American cut size survey results for 2001, detailing what was produced (by grades, weights, brightness, recycled content, and size), how it was sold (branding and packaging), and who was the first customer of the mill. The second half of the document focuses on the most important trends in cut size papers and production as reported by participating paper mills over the past three years. Important findings from the research include: The 12 mills that participated in this survey represent the major paper manufacturers in the industry, and the information they provide covers more than 80% of the cut size market. The 2001 cut size market captured over 5.3 million tons of cut size production, which represents 29,000 tons more than 2000. Paper weights over 28# grew 64.4% between 1999 and 2001, reflecting the broader range of papers that today’s imaging equipment can accept. Paper merchants are the mill’s single largest customers, representing 49% of the business. Generic brands grew 19.8% between 1999 and 2001. In the same time period, mill brands gained 4.2%, private label gained 1.3%, and OEM brands lost 4.8%. The complete research report is available immediately to clients of CAP Ventures’ Communication Supplies Consulting Service. To learn more about the study or to make a purchase, please contact Stewart MacDonald at (781) 871-9000, ext. 175 or [email protected]. Additional information can also be found on the Web at www.capv.com/pubs.