Mosinee, Wisconsin, USA, 09 February 2009 -- Wausau Paper has announced the opening of a new Midwest Printing & Writing distribution hub in Bedford Park, Illinois, centralizing the company’s Appleton and Brokaw, Wisconsin distribution activities to this location. The new facility, which will begin operations in June 2009, will allow for closer proximity of products to key markets within the Midwest, enabling customers improved inventory effectiveness, later offerings for order cut off times and an overall enhanced service profile. The Midwest distribution hub, along with Wausau Paper’s three other regional distribution centers, will enable delivery within 24 hours to most top print markets in the United States.

The opening of the new distribution hub is part of a previously-announced USD 6.6 million capital investment that will consolidate and streamline distribution. Strategically located near Interstate 294, the facility will be managed by third-party logistics provider and current manager of Wausau Paper’s East Coast distribution center, Nexus Distribution Corporation.

The 300,000 square foot hub will feature 11 rail sidings and 33 truck docks. The centrally-located facility will help Wausau Paper reduce carbon emissions by decreasing transfers between converting facilities, and increased access to served markets with intermodal transportation. Up to 60 new jobs have been created in the Chicago area with the opening of this new operation.

For more than 100 years, Wausau Paper has been a leading manufacturer of high-quality, affordable, uncoated papers for consumers, printers, graphic designers and converters. From its mill facilities in Minnesota and Wisconsin, Wausau Paper produces more than 2000 different stock items from more than 400 different types of papers. Approximately two-thirds of Wausau Paper’s Printing & Writing commercial stocking items contain 30% recycled post-consumer fiber and carry the independent Green Seal certification. Product is stocked in four regional distribution centers, enabling delivery within 24 hours to most locations within the United States. To learn more about Wausau Paper’s collection of innovative, quality, environmentally-preferred papers, visit www.wausaupaper.com.