KINGSEY FALLS, QC (News release) -- Cascades Inc. and Société de gestion d'actifs forestiers Solifor are pleased to announce a structuring partnership for the forestry sector in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region. Solifor has acquired Cascades' private forest lands in Kamouraska and Témiscouata, representing 10,500 hectares of forests Cascades had managed for over 25 years. The agreement will allow development of these lands to continue and help secure the long-term supply of Cascades' Cabano plant. The parties completed the $20 million transaction on March 31, 2026.

"This partnership is a natural and beneficial step for both our organizations," said Hugues Simon, President and CEO of Cascades. We are pleased that Quebec interests will maintain the sustainable management of assets we had tapped little into, while opening up access to a greater supply through Solifor, which owns large parcels of forest land near our facility. Through this agreement, we have secured a reliable supply that will help our Cabano plant stay competitive."

"Cascades' exemplary long-term management of its natural and plantation forests in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region has led to its remarkable growth today," said André Gravel, President and CEO of Solifor. "These lands fit well into Solifor's property portfolio, which fosters responsible, balanced and sustainable forest management with a view to optimizing their long-term value, ensuring the harmonious coexistence of various land users, as well as directly contributing to the fight against climate change."

Cascades has been active in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region for more than 50 years, while Solifor has been operating there for more than 15 years through its properties in the Nicolas-Riou and Métis seigneuries.