DS Smith Confirmed Five UK Sites Proposed for Closure

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): DS Smith has confirmed the five UK sites that will face closure, as part of the strategic review process following the acquisition of the company by International Paper. The decision is aimed at improving operational efficiency and addressing changing market conditions. The proposals are expected to be implemented by the end of the calendar year.

The five sites comprises of one box plant and four sheet plants. According to media reports, the proposal relates to DS Smith’s box plant in Clay Cross, Derbyshire, and sheet plants in Plymouth, Newcastle, Sheerness, and Wellingborough.

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In addition, the corporation has suggested moving its Milton Keynes operations and shifting the Burscough site's hours from 24-7 to 24-5. Additionally, there will be a slight decrease in the number of employees at the Redditch and Launceston locations. Only until the consultation process is over will the precise number of jobs that will be impacted be revealed. But according to a statement made by International Paper last month, about 300 positions are probably going to be impacted.

International Paper is currently in consultations with employees and unions regarding the proposed changes.