UK’s trade union Unite is opposing the proposed closure of DS Smith’s packaging factory in Derbyshire as consultations commence.
The factory in question is the Clay Cross site, which has nearly 140 jobs at risk.
DS Smith, a supplier of retail packaging in the UK, was recently subject to a £5.8bn takeover by Memphis-based International Paper.
The new management is reportedly planning to restructure UK operations, potentially closing five sites by the end of 2025.
The planned closures could affect around 300 roles, raising concerns among workers and their families.
Unite represents the engineers at the Clay Cross site, which has been a significant employer in the local community for generations.
Despite International Paper’s assurances during the acquisition process that they would not close UK plants, these proposed closures have emerged.
Earlier in 2025, the company reported increased sales and earnings, largely attributed to the DS Smith acquisition.
The Clay Cross site has been recognised for its operational success and health and safety, making it one of DS Smith’s highest performing locations in the UK.
The decision to consider this site for closure is reportedly linked to required infrastructure investments, particularly a new roof.
This recommendation for a roof replacement stemmed from a visual inspection conducted in 2021.
However, the site team has been managing the roof for several years and is not currently requesting its replacement.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Workers who were given assurances that their jobs would be safe now face paying the price for a profitable company’s greed. It is an utter disgrace that International Paper is playing fast and loose with workers’ livelihoods.
“Unite is prepared to fight every step of the way to protect our hardworking members’ jobs at Clay Cross.”
