International Paper to exit molded fiber business, sell Xalapa mill

International Paper (IP) announced a series of strategic changes that it says will strengthen its North American operations and better serve customers. As part of this initiative, the company will: Exit the molded fiber business and convert the Reno, Nev. facility to support its packaging business. Close its packaging facility in Marion, Ohio. Close its recycling facility in Wichita, Kan. Sell its containerboard mill in Xalapa, Mexico and its recycling plants in Xalapa and Apodaca, Mexico to Acabados de Papeles Santinados y Absorbentes. In the U.S., these changes will impact approximately 110 hourly and 24 salaried employees. In Mexico, APSA intends to retain current onsite team members at each location. International Paper is committed to minimizing the impact through job placement in existing vacancies, retirements and other internal opportunities. Affected employees will also receive severance and outplacement support where possible. “These decisions are never easy because of the impact on our employees, their families and the communities in which we operate. We will assist employees and customers as much as possible through this transition,” said Tom Hamic, executive vice president and president of IP’s Packaging Solutions North America business. “While difficult, these decisions will help enable IP to prioritize the right geographies, customers and products and make investments in resources to support our growth in sustainable packaging.”