IP•IP•International Paper will cease Richwood, KY preprint operations and close Aurora, IL; Elk Grove, CA; and Barrington, NJ facilities by end of Q3 2026 to optimize North America packaging. It will strengthen its cost position, redeploy capacity and support employees with severance while transitioning customers regionally to maintain supply.
International Paper is executing a strategic transformation of its North America packaging network through the closure of four facilities. The move targets preprint operations at Richwood, KY and converting plants in Aurora, IL; Elk Grove, CA; and Barrington, NJ. Management emphasizes the need to focus investments on higher-value opportunities and strengthen cost competitiveness across its packaging solutions business.
The company plans to complete all announced shutdowns by the end of the third quarter 2026. Richwood handles preprint linerboard operations, while the Aurora, Elk Grove and Barrington sites perform sheet-forming and converting activities. Each site serves distinct regional customer bases in corrugated packaging and related segments.
These actions are designed to improve overall cost structure by removing underutilized assets and concentrating output at more efficient plants. Savings will be redirected toward capital investments in automation and capacity expansion at strategic locations within the network.
Affected employees will receive severance packages and outplacement assistance to facilitate their transition. Impacted customers will be shifted to alternative regional facilities to ensure uninterrupted supply and consistent service levels.
