SUSTAINABLE packaging giant International Paper Company looks set to close five UK sites, with approximately 300 jobs affected.
The move follows its acquisition of DS Smith. The business explained the need to improve efficiencies and respond to the evolving needs of customers in what are ‘tough’ trading conditions for the industry.
Additional proposals include the relocation of one site, the move from 24-7 to 24-5 operations at one site, and a ‘small headcount reduction’ at two further packaging sites in the UK.
International Paper expects the proposals would be implemented by the end of this year.
Paul Clarke, MD for UK and Ireland packaging division at DS Smith, commented, “In what are tough trading conditions for the industry, our goal is to optimise the resources we have, so we can serve our customers even better and ultimately grow our business. This will ensure we respond to the evolving needs of customers to deliver sustainable packaging solutions, and create more value for our people, our customers, and shareholders.”
