Smurfit Westrock to Idle Quebec Paper Machine
Paper Recycling | 2026-02-10 06:01:19
As a result of the closures, the company expects a limited workforce reduction, impacting approximately 30 employees at La Tuque and around 60 employees at Pointe-aux-Trembles.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Smurfit Westrock plc has announced plans to permanently shut down one of the paper machines at its La Tuque mill in Quebec, as part of efforts to strengthen its paperboard operations and improve long-term competitiveness.
The affected machine has an annual production capacity of 127,000 tons of solid bleached sulfate (SBS) and has faced persistent scale limitations and cost pressures, making it less competitive in the current market environment.
The decision aligns with Smurfit Westrock’s broader strategy to optimize its SBS portfolio and focus capital and resources on higher-performing assets. In addition to the La Tuque closure, the company will also shut its extrusion facility in Pointe-aux-Trembles, Quebec, which processes grades produced on the La Tuque machine.
As a result of the closures, the company expects a limited workforce reduction, impacting approximately 30 employees at La Tuque and around 60 employees at Pointe-aux-Trembles. Smurfit Westrock said it will provide support to affected employees, including career transition assistance, relocation opportunities where feasible, and local severance packages in line with company policy and labor union agreements.
Commenting on the move, Laurent Sellier, President and CEO of Smurfit Westrock’s North America Region, said the decision was difficult but necessary to reflect market realities. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to its Canadian operations, employees, and customers while positioning the business for sustainable long-term growth.
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Will capacity rationalization improve competitiveness in the North American paperboard market?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Smurfit Westrock closing in Quebec?
The company will permanently shut one paper machine at its La Tuque mill and close its extrusion facility in Pointe-aux-Trembles.
- How much capacity will be affected?
The closure removes approximately 127,000 tons per year of solid bleached sulfate (SBS) production capacity.
- How many jobs will be impacted?
About 30 employees at La Tuque and 60 at Pointe-aux-Trembles are expected to be affected.
