The Marion Container Plant announced Thursday, June 26, it would close permanetly Sept. 1.
The closure of the plant, owned by International Paper, is part of a wider company initiative affecting plants in Kansas, Nevada and Mexico. According to a press release from International Paper, the closures in the U.S. will affect 110 hourly and 24 salaried employees.
“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,” Tom Hamic, executive vice president and president of IP’s Packaging Solutions North America business, said according to a news release. “While difficult, these decisions will help enable IP (International Paper) to prioritize the right geographies, customers and products and make investments in resources to support our growth in sustainable packaging.”
The Marion Container Plant did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
In a letter sent to employees and the Marion County Board of Commissioners, Stephanie Berry, a human resources representative from International Paper, wrote the company will discuss severance, pension and retirement benefits with union representatives in the near future.
“The Marion Converting facility and all its Team Members, have been a valuable part of International Paper for a number of years and we regret the news we must share today,” the letter stated. “We appreciate all of your hard work and dedication to the Company and to the Marion plant during your employment.”
This article originally appeared on Marion Star: Marion Container plant closing in September; discussions on severance coming soon
Reporting by Abby Bammerlin, Marion Star / Marion Star
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