Smurfit Westrock has launched a consultation process over the future of its SSK paper mill in Birmingham, UK, and four converting operations in the UK and the Netherlands, which could ultimately result in the sites' closures.
The SSK mill in Birmingham manufactures around 200,000 tpy of fluting and liner for the UK and Irish corrugated packaging market. According to Smurfit Westrock, the review is being driven by “challenging external market factors” as well as the need to optimise the company’s manufacturing footprint in the UK and improve long-term competitiveness.
If the closure goes ahead, production volumes currently manufactured at the Birmingham facility would be relocated to other mills in Smurfit Westrock’s European system. The company said this would allow it to continue supplying customers while maintaining a sustainable long-term presence in the UK paper market.
Pim Wareman, CEO of Smurfit Westrock Recycled Paper Cluster Europe, described the move as “a difficult but necessary decision” aimed at aligning the business with current market conditions and strengthening its long-term position. He also acknowledged the contribution of the employees at the SSK site.
The consultation process is scheduled to begin on 15 May and will last six weeks. A final decision on the future of the mill will be taken after the consultation has concluded.
In the event of a closure, around 130 employees would be affected. Smurfit Westrock said the impacted workers would be offered support measures, including career assistance and opportunities elsewhere within the group where possible.
