Paper Excellence Announces Indefinite Curtailment of Production at Its Catalyst Crofton, BC, Paper Plant

Citing weakening paper markets in China as well as substantial increases in price for chemicals, energy, and wood fiber used at its Catalyst Crofton, BC, facility, Paper Excellence on Thursday (10-6-22) announced the indefinite curtailment of its paper operations at the site effective in early December 2022.

Previously, the Crofton facility was closed for 2-weeks starting on September 10th, 2022, for similar reasons.

The company has indicated that the mill’s pulp operations will continue production during the paper curtailment.

A statement released by Paper Excellence said:

“We expect to operate Crofton’s paper machines for 60 days following this announcement. We will be working closely with both unions as this decision affects about 80 Unifor employees and 70 PPWC employees. We recognize the hardship this will have on both our employees and the Cowichan Valley. We hope to minimize these impacts through union discussions that will consider secondments, utilization of earned time off and employment insurance.”