Feb 11, 2010. /Lesprom Network/. Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc. reported 4Q 2009 earnings results for the period ended December 31, 2009. Net sales were $188.5 million, a 7% increase versus the prior-year quarter, the company said in a statement received by Lesprom Network. Net sales increased $11.6 million as a result of a $19.2 million improvement in the mix of products sold and higher selling prices, and $14.3 in favorable foreign currency exchange rate impacts. These increases were partially offset by $13.6 million from an 8% decrease in unit sales volumes and an $8.3 million sales decrease at our Malaucene facility which ceased operations during the 4Q. Operating profit was $11.7 million in the three month period ended December 31, 2009 versus an operating loss of $2.5 million in the prior-year quarter. Excluding pre-tax restructuring and impairment expenses, operating profit was $21.4 million during the 4Q 2009 compared with $11.3 million during the 4Q 2008. Net sales were $740.4 million in 2009, a 4% decrease versus the prior year. Net sales decreased $27.5 million as a result of $54.7 million from a 10% decrease in unit sales volumes. Operating profit was $53.0 million in the year ended December 31, 2009 versus $16.9 million in the prior year. Excluding pre-tax restructuring and impairment expenses, operating profit was $103.2 million during 2009 compared with $39.0 million during 2008. The higher operating profit was primarily due to $67.2 million from an improved mix of products sold and higher selling prices, $28.6 million in cost savings programs and $7.2 million in lower inflationary costs, primarily due to lower wood pulp costs. Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc. is a diversified producer of premium specialty papers.