News Summary
International Paper has announced the permanent closure of four facilities across the United States, affecting 674 employees. The closures, set to occur by April 2025, include plants in Louisiana, Arizona, Pennsylvania, and Missouri. This decision comes as the company aims to streamline operations following a significant merger. Employees will receive support during this transition as they seek new job opportunities.
Memphis, Tennessee: International Paper Announces Facility Closures
In a significant announcement that’s sure to send shockwaves through the communities involved, International Paper, one of the giants in the paper and pulp industry, revealed plans to permanently close four of its facilities across the United States. This news came to light on February 13, 2025, and has immediate implications for over 670 employees who are about to face uncertain times.
The Impact on Employees
International Paper has stated that a total of 674 employees will be affected by these closures. This includes 495 hourly workers and 179 salaried employees, who will all be looking for new opportunities as their jobs come to an end. As these facilities near their final days of operation, emotional and financial considerations weigh heavily on those impacted.
Where Are The Closures Happening?
The plant closures will involve:
- Red River container mill in Campti, Louisiana
- Recycling plant in Phoenix, Arizona
- Box plant in Hazleton, Pennsylvania
- Sheet feeder facility in St. Louis, Missouri
All of these facilities are set to close their doors by the end of April 2025, marking a major transition for the employees and communities involved.
What Does This Mean for International Paper?
Beyond just the immediate job loss, the closure of the Red River container mill is expected to significantly impact the company’s operations by reducing containerboard capacity by approximately 800,000 tons annually. This measure is seen as part of a broader shift within International Paper as they strive to evolve into a more sustainable and efficient packaging solutions provider.
A History of Workforce Changes
This latest announcement isn’t the first time the company has had to make tough choices regarding its workforce. Just a few months prior, in **October 2024**, 650 employees faced layoffs, which included a significant reduction of 400 workers in the Memphis area alone. These moves are aligned with International Paper’s ongoing initiative to better position itself for the future, focusing on enhancing its service and quality.
What Support Is Available?
Recognizing the difficult road ahead for those affected, International Paper has committed to providing various forms of support to its employees. This includes outplacement assistance, mental health support resources, and severance benefits where applicable, ensuring that as many people as possible can find their footing again in the job market.
The Bigger Picture
Itโs important to remember that International Paper is not just a local employerโthis Fortune 500 company boasts over 65,000 employees globally. The recent closures and workforce reductions come on the heels of a substantial $9.9 billion merger with London-based DS Smith, which is aimed at helping the company refine its operations globally.
With this merger fresh on the mind of the company, streamlining its operational footprint becomes essential for remaining competitive. The closures may be tough on communities and employees, but they are part of a larger strategy to focus on investments that improve customer service and product quality.
Final Thoughts
The news may seem daunting, but it reflects the changing landscape of the manufacturing and packaging industries as a whole. While this is certainly a difficult time for those affected, there may also be opportunities for innovation and new beginnings ahead.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Memphis Employees Face Job Uncertainty Amid International Paper Layoffs
Memphis Job Market Hits Hard as International Paper Announces Major Layoffs
Major Workforce Reductions Announced as International Paper Restructures Operations in Memphis
Exciting Developments in Brownsville: New Industrial Site Sparks Opportunity
Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis
- Commercial Appeal
- Local Memphis
- WREG News
- Wikipedia: International Paper
- Encyclopedia Britannica: International Paper
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
