International Paper Plans to Close Four North American Facilities

On Saturday, International Paper announced plans to close four North American facilities as part of a broader effort to optimize its manufacturing network, focus investments on higher-value operations, and better serve customers across the region.

The company said it will cease preprint operations at its Richwood, KY, facility and close its sheet plant in Aurora, IL, along with converting plants in Elk Grove, CA, and Barrington, NJ, by the end of Q3. The actions are intended to strengthen the company’s cost position, increase capacity across its remaining network, and support its sustainable packaging business.

Commenting on the decision, Tom Hamic, Executive Vice President and President of Packaging Solutions North America, said:

“These are difficult but necessary decisions that strengthen our network, focus investments where they create the greatest value, and position International Paper to better serve customers and compete for the long term. We are grateful to the employees affected and are committed to supporting them through this transition and ensuring a seamless experience for our customers.”

International Paper said it will provide affected employees with severance, benefits, and outplacement assistance. The company also expects to transition customers served by the affected facilities to other plants within their respective regions to maintain continuity of supply.