International Paper to close five packaging sites in the UK
International Paper (IP) is planning to close five of its packaging sites in the United Kingdom by the end of 2025 as part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and adapt to challenging market conditions. IP confirmed that approximately 300 positions may be affected.
27 May 2025 | By WhatPackaging? Team
International Paper acquired rival DS Smith in a mega deal in January 2025 (Image: International Paper)
Following its acquisition of DS Smith in January, International Paper (IP) has confirmed a proposal to close five packaging sites in the UK.
International Paper issued a statement that said the move was “to improve efficiencies and to respond to the evolving needs of our customers in what are tough trading conditions for the industry.”
Additional proposals also include the relocation of one site, the move from 24/7 to 24/5 operations at one site, and a small headcount reduction at two other packaging sites in the UK.
This announcement comes after IP acquired London-based DS Smith (in a deal worth USD 7.2-billion) in January 2024. This acquisition was first announced in April 2024, when IP outbid England-based Mondi.
IP had said that while the European Commission issued its Phase I clearance of the deal on 24 January 2025, the clearance was conditional on International Paper entering into commitments to divest its box plants located in Mortagne, Saint-Amand, and Cabourg in France, Ovar in Portugal, and Bilbao in Spain.
In February 2025, IP announced the closure of four plants in the US and a 1% global workforce reduction — 674 jobs. Facilities in Louisiana, Arizona, Pennsylvania, and Missouri were reportedly planned to be shut by April, reducing IP’s containerboard capacity by 800,000-tonnes. Reportedly, IP is also exploring the sale of its cellulose fibre business.
IP employs more than 65,000 staff and has operations in over 30 countries. Its net sales for 2024 were USD 18.6-billion.