Following the conclusion of the statutory negotiations, M-real has decided that the Äänekoski paper machine, with an annual capacity of approximately 200,000 tons of coated fine paper, will be closed by the end of 2011. The mill’s sheeting capacity will be converted fully to folding boxboard. Planning work related to the sheeting capacity conversion is on-going. The related personnel reduction is a maximum of 169 people. In close cooperation with local authorities, M-real will assist redundant employees to find new employment. In addition, M-real will also facilitate redeployment, if possible, by offering employment opportunities internally within the company or other Metsäliitto Group's business areas.M-real continues to produce coated paper atHusum mill. The Äänekoski paper machine’s reel production will be transferred to Husum. The annual coated paper capacity at Husum will be increased from 285,000 to 340,000 tons during 2012. Also in the future M-real’s coated papers will be sold by Sappi Fine Paper Europe. Based on the above measures, M-real’s annual coated paper capacity is reduced by approximately 145,000 tons. M-real’s annual sales will reduce by approximately 60 million Euros and the operating result will increase by approximately 20 million Euros. The full annual financial impact of the measures is expected to materialise from 2012 onwards.