ND Paper trials idled Rumford R12 paper machine
ND Paper produced a first trial roll on the idled R12 paper machine at its Rumford mill in Maine on 5 November 2026, after several weeks of testing. The machine was idled in 2024 amid difficult market conditions; the company has not disclosed the grade trialled or a timetable for resuming regular production.
Why this mattersA return of R12, earlier expanded into unbleached recycled bag and converting papers, would bring idled Rumford capacity back to the North American market.
- First trial roll produced on R12 at Rumford, Maine, on 5 November 2026
- R12 was idled in 2024 as ND Paper adjusted capacity to demand
- No commercial production timetable or trial grade has been announced
- R12 was expanded in November 2020 to add unbleached recycled bag and converting papers