HELSINKI, FINLAND, Nov. 16, 2001 (PRIMEZONE) -- Metso Paper (NYSE:MX) opened its Stateline Service Center on November 15, 2001. The new facility of 8,000 (m)squared (86,000 sq. ft) is located in Beloit, Wisconsin and handles central distribution of spare parts and consumables for Metso Paper for North America, as well as the assembly and repair of certain components. In addition, it houses engineering and service personnel supporting field services and upgrades of fiber and papermaking lines. Service center has 170 employees.
The new service center reinforces Metso Paper's commitment to the North American pulp and paper industry and improves its service ability. Strengthening of service network is part of Metso Future Care business concept, aimed at maintaining the competitiveness of customer processes throughout their lifecycles.
Metso Corporation is a global supplier of process industry machinery and systems. The corporation's fiber and paper technology business area, Metso Paper, is the world's leading supplier of technology, systems and equipment for the pulp, paper, converting and panelboard industries. Metso's other core businesses are divided between Metso Minerals (rock and mineral processing) and Metso Automation (automation and control technology). In 2000, the net sales of Metso Corporation were EUR 3.9 billion, and the personnel totaled approximately 22,000. Metso Corporation is listed on the Helsinki and New York Stock Exchanges.
Metso completed its offer for Svedala Industri AB on September 14, 2001. Svedala is a global supplier of products and services for rock and mineral processes. Metso's and Svedala's combined net sales are approximately EUR 5,400 million (in 2000) and the amount of personnel is approximately 32,000.