Louisville, Kentucky, December 2, 2025
International Paper has announced the closure of its packaging facility in Louisville by December 2025, affecting 93 employees. This move is part of a strategy to enhance operations and invest in locations that improve service delivery. The company is taking steps to support its workforce through attrition, retirements, and providing severance benefits, outplacement assistance, and mental health resources. While the closure may initially harm the local economy, community leaders encourage resilience and innovation to mitigate these challenges.
Louisville, Kentucky
International Paper to Close Louisville Facility, Affecting 93 Employees
Closure part of a broader strategy to enhance operations
International Paper has announced plans to close its packaging facility located in Louisville by December 2025, resulting in the layoff of 93 employees. This decision aligns with the company’s strategy to streamline operations and invest in locations that enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction. As part of this transition, operations will be consolidated, with all customers served from nearby facilities.
The company is taking steps to lessen the impact on its workforce through attrition and retirements while addressing current vacancies at other International Paper locations. Furthermore, employees affected by the layoff will receive comprehensive support, including severance benefits, outplacement assistance, and access to mental health resources.
International Paper’s Commitment to Sustainability
International Paper, headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, is recognized as a leader in sustainable packaging solutions, operating in more than 30 countries worldwide. With a workforce of over 65,000 and net sales of $18.6 billion in 2024, the company is undergoing a transformational journey aimed at reinforcing its position as a strong, sustainable packaging provider. In 2025, its acquisition of DS Smith further expanded its global reach.
Impact on the Local Community
The closure of the Louisville facility may initially seem detrimental to the local economy, resulting in job losses for community members. However, the proactive measures taken by International Paper to manage layoffs reflect a commitment to supporting its employees during this transition. Community leaders encourage resilience and innovation from local businesses to mitigate the effects of such closures.
Economic Context
This announcement comes during a time when the Kentucky economy has been marked by both challenges and opportunities. As local entrepreneurs navigate a landscape during which competitiveness is crucial, the emphasis on reducing regulatory burdens could foster the growth of new businesses and job creation. The community’s ability to adapt will certainly play a role in sustaining optimism for future economic resilience.
Strategic Focus Moving Forward
International Paper’s decision to close its Louisville facility is part of a broader strategic initiative aimed at improving operational efficiency and investing in facilities that better engage with customer needs. By focusing on sustainable practices and quality improvements, the company aims to enhance reliability and service delivery, which ultimately benefits customers and strengthens the overall market.
Looking Ahead
While the news of the closure is understandably concerning for the affected employees and the local community, it is crucial to recognize the potential for future growth and innovation in Louisville. By supporting local businesses and fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship, the community can navigate these challenging times and emerge even stronger.
Key Takeaways
The closure of International Paper’s Louisville packaging facility underscores the company’s shift towards more sustainable and efficient operations. As the community contemplates the implications of this decision, support for local businesses and an emphasis on growing Kentucky’s economy remain paramount.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the reason for the closure of the Louisville facility?
The closure is part of International Paper’s strategy to streamline operations and focus investments on facilities that best serve customers and accelerate strategic initiatives to improve quality, reliability, and service delivery.
When will the Louisville facility cease operations?
Operations at the Louisville facility are scheduled to cease by December 2025.
How many employees will be affected by the closure?
The closure will result in the layoff of 93 employees.
What support will be provided to the affected employees?
Affected team members will receive outplacement assistance, access to mental health support resources, and severance benefits. The company plans to minimize the impact on employees through attrition, retirements, and current vacancies at other International Paper locations.
What is International Paper’s strategy moving forward?
International Paper is undergoing a transformational journey to become a stronger, more sustainable packaging solutions provider. The company is focusing on streamlining its operations and investing in facilities that align with its strategic initiatives to improve quality, reliability, and service delivery.
Key Features of the Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Facility Location | Louisville, Kentucky |
| Number of Employees Affected | 93 |
| Closure Date | December 2025 |
| Support Provided to Employees | Outplacement assistance, mental health support resources, severance benefits |
| Company’s Strategic Focus | Streamlining operations, investing in facilities that improve quality, reliability, and service delivery |
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