Buckeye Technologies Completes Walkisoft Acquisition.

MEMPHIS, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 30, 1999--

Buckeye Technologies Inc. (NYSE:BKI) and UPM-Kymmene (NYSE:UPM) today announced that all necessary steps have been completed for Buckeye's acquisition of Walkisoft, the nonwovens division of UPM-Kymmene, to be closed effective October 1, 1999.

With the addition of Walkisoft's operations in Steinfurt, Germany and Mt. Holly, North Carolina, Buckeye becomes the world's leading producer of nonwoven products utilizing airlaid technology. Buckeye now has manufacturing facilities strategically positioned in North America and Europe.

Buckeye CEO Robert E. Cannon said, "We are delighted to have Walkisoft on the Buckeye team. The purchase of Walkisoft allows Buckeye to immediately respond to the increasing worldwide demand for nonwoven products, broadens our product line, and combines the expertise of two highly competent organizations."

Buckeye is a leading manufacturer and marketer of specialty cellulose and absorbent products. The Company operates facilities in the United States, Canada, Germany and Ireland. Its products are sold worldwide to makers of consumer and industrial goods.

Certain matters discussed in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws that involve risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors affecting the Company's operations, markets, products, services, prices and other factors. For further information on factors, which could impact the Company and the statements, contained herein, please refer to public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.