International Paper announced it has reached a definitive agreement with MeadWestvaco Corporation to sell the Carolina® coated bristols brand.

The sale is expected to close 30 April 2015. Terms of the sale were not disclosed.

International Paper's decision to sell the Carolina brand was a result of its plans to convert the Riegelwood N.C., Mill to 100 percent fluff and softwood pulp production, thereby eliminating the manufacturing capability to produce the brand. "We recognize that Carolina is a leading brand valued by our merchants, printers, graphic designers and other customers," said Mike Amick, senior vice president, North America Papers & Pulp and Consumer Packaging. "MWV has a long history producing coated bristols for the commercial print market and we view them as a strategic fit to acquire the Carolina brand." Carolina is a preferred coated bristols brand used in a variety of applications like greeting cards, book covers and marketing collateral.

Both companies are committed to a seamless transition to ensure the ongoing quality and reliable performance which customers value and expect. "Taking care of our customers throughout this transition is a top priority," said Amick.

International Paper's coated paperboard and printing papers businesses are strategic to the company's global portfolio. "The sale of Carolina captures the brand's value, and positions the remaining coated paperboard products to support our customers' strategic growth in the food service and packaging markets. The company's commercial print portfolio, which includes the Hammermill®, Accent® Opaque, Williamsburg Offset and the Springhill® brands, will continue to be a strategic part of the company and a valued part of merchant product portfolios," said Amick.