Sappi Europe has entered the book paper market with the launch of Galerie Book, a new mechanical uncoated paper designed specifically for publishers and printers. Produced at Sappi’s Kirkniemi Mill in Finland, the new paper represents a strategic expansion of its Galerie portfolio.
The introduction of Galerie Book is intended to address market demand for increased supply chain resilience and environmentally responsible paper options for books. Joonas Järvinen, Sappi’s head of sales for Galerie Book, said: “With the development of Galerie Book as part of our Galerie brand family, we’re providing publishers with a credible alternative that matches the technical specifications demanded by the market while delivering the sustainability performance they require.”
The paper has been developed to align with market standards, enabling publishers and printers to adopt it without changes to their existing workflows. It is compatible with a range of printing technologies, including heatset, coldset, and digital, and has already completed successful trials with several major customers in Europe, said Sappi.
The Kirkniemi Mill sources woodfibre locally from within 300 kilometres, and its advanced water management system reuses water up to 18 times. Significant investment in renewable energy and an €80 million (£67.2 million) multi-fuel boiler has enabled a 70% reduction in the product’s carbon footprint, positioning Galerie Book as a strong option for publishers with environmental commitments.
Galerie Book is currently available in several variants, including Galerie Book Creamy in 52, 55, and 60 g/sqm with different bulk specifications, and a Creamy Bulk version at 55 g/sqm. A white version is also planned.
