Greif To Close Two Operations

A major packaging company headquartered in Delaware, Ohio, Greif, has announced significant changes to its operations, including the permanent shutdown of two key production sites. The company plans to cease production on a paperboard machine in Austell, Georgia, by the end of March and close a containerboard mill in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, by the end of May.

The Austell facility’s No. 1 paperboard machine, is being decommissioned due to increased operational costs and declining demand in sectors such as furniture, books, and binders.

The Fitchburg mill, which produces both containerboard and uncoated recycled paperboard (URB), is being shut down due to high operating expenses and the need for significant capital investment to remain viable. Combined, these closures will reduce the company’s containerboard capacity by 100,000 tons and URB capacity by 90,000 tons.

Approximately 140 jobs will be affected by these closures. The company has expressed its gratitude to the employees impacted and has committed to providing severance benefits and outplacement assistance.

For small business owners who rely on recycled cardboard and paperboard materials, these changes could have ripple effects on supply availability and pricing. With the reduction in production capacity, businesses may face tighter supply chains or increased costs for recycled materials.

Recycling and sustainable practices remain essential for small businesses looking to reduce environmental impact while staying competitive. Monitoring industry developments can help you make informed decisions to support both your business and sustainability goals.  And as, always, think of Greene Recycling first, for your cardboard bale pickup route.