International Paper, a sustainable packaging solutions provider, is set to close more plants in the US by the end of the third quarter of 2026.

Operations due for closure are its sheet plant in Aurora, Illinois and preprint activity at its Richwood, Kentucky site, along with converting facilities in Elk Grove, California, and Barrington, New Jersey.

Affected employees will receive outplacement support, severance and benefits.

To maintain supply, the company is transitioning impacted customers to alternative regional facilities.

Earlier this year, International Paper’s packaging plants in Compton, California, and Louisville, Kentucky, ceased their operations. The closures affected 125 and 93 employees, respectively.

In 2025, it shut down the Red River containerboard mill in Campti, Louisiana; a recycling plant in Phoenix, Arizona; a box plant in Hazleton, Pennsylvania; and a sheet feeder facility in St. Louis, Missouri.

The company said the latest downsizing efforts are intended to streamline its operating network and direct spending towards “highest-value” areas.

It said the decision is in line with its plan to improve its cost base.

International Paper North America packaging solutions executive vice-president and president Tom Hamic said: "These are difficult but necessary decisions that strengthen our network, focus investments where they create the greatest value and position International Paper to better serve customers and compete for the long term.

"We are grateful to the employees affected and are committed to supporting them through this transition and ensuring a seamless experience for our customers.”

Meanwhile, last month, the company started construction of a new packaging plant in Rankin County, Mississippi, with the project entailing an investment of $225m.

The development involves a 468,000ft² corrugated packaging facility on an 80-acre site at the East Metro Centre in Brandon.