Following the completion of the acquisition of DS Smith, International Paper (IP) announces that several German sites will be proposed for closure as part of the strategic reorganisation. Around 500 jobs are affected.
Following the transaction, which was completed on 31 January 2025, International Paper is now putting the intentions it formulated in April and September 2024 into concrete terms. According to the company, this is in response to efficiency requirements and a challenging market environment.
Five locations in Germany on the brink of closure
The Group announced that a conventional plant for corrugated board packaging, a display and offset site and three format plants are to be closed. In addition, a partial closure of another display site is planned. Paderborn and Hövelhof in particular are being mentioned by various parties. According to current plans, around 500 jobs would be affected. The measures are to be implemented by the end of 2026, subject to the legally required information and consultation procedures.
International Paper is assigning the steps to a comprehensive strategic review of its Central European business. The aim is to optimise resources, strengthen competitiveness and position the company for future growth in the packaging market. The planned measures represent an update of the intentions formulated in the offer documentation for the DS Smith transaction.
Consultations ongoing - no further details
The dialogue with employee representatives has begun. According to the company, further statements on the scope and effects can only be made once the consultations have progressed.
Background: International Paper after the DS Smith integration
International Paper employs more than 65,000 people worldwide and generated sales of USD 18.6 billion in 2024. The acquisition of DS Smith created a leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions with a strong presence in North America and EMEA.
Source: International Paper
