In big UFS capacity change, IP plans for permanent shut of its Courtland, AL, mill by the end of first quarter 2014

摘要

In a move that some called shocking and that some also said might spur a price increase early next year, International Paper (IP), North America's second largest uncoated freesheet (UFS) paper producer, announced a permanent shutdown of its nearly 1 million tons/yr Gourtland, AL, mill — with full closure expected by the end of March 2014. A total of 1,100 workers will be affected at the complex in northwest Alabama near the Tennessee border. The closure will take place in two stages. Two of the mill's four machines are to shut in the fourth quarter this year and the other two in first quarter 2014, contacts said this week. Four-fifths of the mill capacity is in UFS paper.