Packaging Giant International Paper to close four US sites by April 2025

International Paper has announced plans to permanently close four of its facilities in the United States, with operations expected to cease by the end of April 2025. The affected sites include the Red River containerboard mill in Campti, Louisiana; a recycling plant in Phoenix, Arizona; a box plant in Hazleton, Pennsylvania; and a sheet feeder facility in St. Louis, Missouri.

The closure of the Red River mill is projected to reduce the company's containerboard production capacity by approximately 800,000 tonnes per year. In total, 674 employees will be impacted, comprising 495 hourly and 179 salaried staff members. The company has indicated it will provide support through outplacement services, mental health resources, and, where applicable, severance packages. Efforts will also be made to redeploy staff through internal vacancies, retirements, and natural attrition.

Tom Hamic, executive vice president and president, North American Packaging Solutions, International Paper, said: The decision to close any facility is difficult because of the impact on our team members, their families and the surrounding communities. We greatly appreciate the contributions from our departing team members and will do all we can to support them.

These changes align with International Paper's broader strategy to refine its operations and concentrate resources on facilities that enhance product quality, reliability, and service delivery. The company has stated that these steps are part of its long-term goal to strengthen its position as a provider of sustainable packaging solutions.