Q4 Paper Outlook — On-the-Cheap Sheets

Compared to 2002, MeadWestvaco says market conditions have continued to deteriorate, as reflected in lower shipments for coated, carbonless and specialty papers. The company reports that coated paper prices and shipment levels were down from its previous quarter. Continuing high energy and raw materials costs were contributing factors in the firm posting an operating loss for the quarter, asserts John Luke Jr., chairman and CEO.