Helsinki, Finland, 08 February 2008 -- Metso Paper will upgrade the pilot paper machines at its Paper Technology Center in Jyväskylä, Finland. The investment, which will cover pilot PM 1 and PM 2, will radically improve their capabilities in creating new cutting-edge technologies for paper and board making.

The total value of the investment is close to EUR 13 million. The project will be started immediately and finished by the end of 2009.

By creating a world-class paper and board machine pilot environment, the investment will enable Metso Paper to grow as a leading supplier of technologies for high-speed board making. In addition to meeting current requirements, it will provide a base for long-term future development.

In conjunction with the investment, Metso Paper will centralize its paper and board research and technology development operations to Jyväskylä. Starting in 2009, the pilot runs previously carried out in Anjalankoski, Finland, will be transferred to Jyväskylä.

Metso is a global engineering and technology corporation with 2007 net sales of approximately EUR 6 billion. Its almost 27,000 employees in approximately 50 countries serve customers in the pulp and paper industry, rock and minerals processing, the energy industry, and selected other industries.

www.metso.com