Introduction of Next Generation Timber Trading Center Complements Implementation Plan ATLANTA--May 7, 2002-- ForestExpress, the transaction processing network for the paper and forest products industry, today announced that International Paper has selected ForestExpress to extend support for its online timber procurement. These e-commerce activities represent key elements of International Paper's timber procurement and supply chain management strategy. International Paper has been an ongoing participant in the ForestExpress Timber Trading Center for online wood procurement. This additional engagement will include the build out of an online wood procurement contract management system. This integrated system will enable International Paper's suppliers to view and download scale tickets; view contracts and fulfillment status; view and print gate passes/authorization cards; and maintain authorization card data. It will minimize the need for manual data entry and eliminate associated errors, improve workflow, and allow for collaborative supply chain tracking. "With its `connect once and collaborate often' integration model, ForestExpress was the logical/strategic choice for helping International Paper better connect and collaborate with its timber suppliers," said Dana Saucier, General Manager of Fiber Supply for International Paper's Forest Resources Business. "The solutions ForestExpress provides continue to help us create business process efficiencies, reduce costs and strengthen relationships with our suppliers." In conjunction with this announcement, ForestExpress introduced the release of expanded next generation functionality and enhancements to its Timber Trading Center, including multi-product offerings, weekly order and quota management, and request for quotes and proposals. The next generation Trading Center allows real-time transactions for delivered products and stumpage. ForestExpress customers using the Trading Center gain access to the largest online forestry trading community, providing a broader market reach and a simultaneous connection to multiple trading partners. ForestExpress is working to facilitate industry standards for electronically sharing information across the entire forest products supply chain, as well as enabling customers to achieve a more effective raw materials procurement strategy. "International Paper is already a leader in raw materials procurement and supply chain excellence. We are pleased the company chose to employ ForestExpress applications to further improve workflow and increase business process efficiencies," said Keith Russell, CEO of ForestExpress.