The packaging giant will cease operations at four locations by the end of April 2025, affecting both hourly and salaried employees across multiple states.
International Paper confirmed today that it will close its Red River containerboard mill in Campti, Louisiana, as well as 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 containerboard mill alone is expected to cut the company’s output by 800,000 tons annually.
All told, 495 hourly workers and 179 salaried staff members will be impacted by these shutdowns. Wondering what this means for the affected communities? The timeline below offers a quick overview:
| Facility | Location | Closure Deadline | Employees Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Containerboard Mill | Campti, LA | End of April 2025 | 504 (est.) |
| Recycling Plant | Phoenix, AZ | End of April 2025 | 73 (est.) |
| Box Plant | Hazleton, PA | End of April 2025 | 51 (est.) |
| Sheet Feeder Facility | St. Louis, MO | End of April 2025 | 46 (est.) |
(Employee estimates combine both hourly and salaried positions per site and may vary.)
Reasons behind International Paper’s facility closures and their wider community impact
International Paper is streamlining its footprint as part of a broader transformation to boost efficiency and strengthen its status as a sustainable packaging solutions provider. According to company leaders, redirecting investments to select facilities will help deliver higher product quality, improved reliability, and faster service.
However, local officials in Campti, Phoenix, Hazleton, and St. Louis have already expressed concerns about the ripple effects of these closures. Could there be a spike in unemployment rates or a slowdown in local economic growth? It’s a real possibility, given how many families rely on these facilities for stable income and health benefits.
To support those facing job loss, the company plans to provide outplacement assistance, mental health resources, and, when possible, severance packages. Below is a short list of immediate actions:
- Job fairs and resume workshops in partnership with community centers
- Access to telehealth and mental wellness programs
- Potential internal transfers to other International Paper sites
Aiming to keep the transition as smooth as possible, International Paper is also working with local and state officials to find alternative opportunities for displaced workers.
What to expect from International Paper’s measures to help displaced team members
In addition to attrition and retirements, the company notes there are vacancies available at other International Paper locations. These openings could absorb some of the workforce impacted by the closures. Company executives, including Tom Hamic, executive vice president and president of North American Packaging Solutions, emphasize that this decision was not taken lightly but is part of a necessary strategy to remain competitive in a changing market.
International Paper, headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, and with operations in more than 30 countries, reported net sales of $18.6 billion in 2024. Its recent acquisition of DS Smith in 2025 has further solidified its global reach. As the company moves forward, it aims to focus on innovation, sustainable packaging practices, and long-term growth.
By reducing capacity and consolidating operations, International Paper hopes to build a stronger future for its remaining facilities and customers worldwide. Still, local leaders are urging immediate support for families who must now pivot toward new employment or training programs.