Sustainable packaging solutions provider International Paper is set to close five packaging sites in Germany, impacting 500 jobs. 

The move is part of the company’s integration of DS Smith, a UK rival it acquired in January 2025.  

The facilities lined up for closure are one conventional box plant, one display and offset site, and three sheet plants, along with a partial closure of another display site.  

A consultation process with employee representatives is ongoing, and the company will not comment further on the scope or potential impact on employees until the process advances. 

International Paper indicated that the plans would be implemented by the end of 2026, subject to the outcome of consultations. 

The proposals follow a review by its Central European business and form part of its endeavour to become a stronger sustainable packaging solutions provider. 

The company aims “... to optimise its existing resources to better serve its customers and to position the business optimally for growth.”  

The latest decision follows similar moves in the UK and Europe. 

In May 2025, Reuters reported that International Paper will shut down five of its UK packaging sites, leading to a loss of 300 jobs. 

Two months later, International Paper completed the sale of five European plants to PALM Group. 

In August, International Paper underwent a series of strategic changes. These include an agreement to sell its Global Cellulose Fibers business to American Industrial Partners (AIP) for $1.5bn, with additional closing adjustments. 

At the same time, it permanently closed several facilities in Georgia, impacting about 1,100 hourly and salaried employees. 

International Paper employs more than 65,000 people across in 30 countries and reported net sales of $18.6bn in 2024.