Q2 Paper Outlook — Run of the Mill Demand

Markets Are Merging

Offset and digital papers are converging, confirms Ned Spangler, brand manager for Merchant Office Papers at International Paper in Stamford, CT. "But at the present time, IP still sees them as distinct markets," he adds.

"While most digital papers can be printed via offset, many offset grades are still not suitable for digital printing," Spangler continues. "Digital papers are typically smoother, brighter, better formed and have tighter electrical properties than traditional offset grades. IP is now making many of its traditional offset grades 'digitally compatible' because we see it as a growth opportunity."