Oct 02, 2007. /Lesprom Network/. Glatfelter, a global supplier of specialty papers and engineered products, announced on October 1, 2007 that it will upgrade its production and process capabilities to serve the growing demand in its food and beverage segment. Expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2008, the capital investment will be approximately $10 million. This investment will be to upgrade an inclined-wire paper machine in Gernsbach, Germany. Primarily focused on supporting the growth in tea and coffee filtration papers, the newly rebuilt production line will also enhance the company's ability to produce a richer mix of high-value niche products. Commenting on the investment, Dante C. Parrini, executive vice president and chief operating officer, said, "As a worldwide leader, we remain committed to supporting the evolving needs of our global customer base. This investment further demonstrates our ability to meet the growing demands of the market and strengthen our position as the supplier of choice." "The demand for tea and coffee products is growing around the world," added Martin Rapp, vice president & general manager, for Glatfelter's composite fibers business unit. "With the successful development of single serve coffee products in Europe and North America and the continuous penetration of teabag products in traditional tea drinking markets like Eastern Europe, the Middle East and certain Asian markets, the demand for filter paper is accelerating. At the same time, this enhanced machine will broaden our capabilities and provide the opportunity to produce a wider range of high-value niche products." Headquartered in York, Pennsylvania, Glatfelter is a global manufacturer of specialty papers and engineered products. U.S. operations include facilities in Spring Grove, PA, Chillicothe and Fremont, Ohio, and a sales office in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina. International operations include facilities in Germany, France, the United Kingdom and the Philippines and a representative office in China. Glatfelter's common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange.