Sappi has concluded the consultation process regarding capacity closures at its Alfeld mill in Germany, which will lead to a reduction of around 180 positions.
According to the company, the reduction will be achieved through a combination of unfilled vacancies, voluntary agreements and, where unavoidable, redundancies.
In July, Sappi had announced plans to shut down paper machines 1 and 4, offline coater 2 and the sheet finishing operations at the Alfeld site. The measures are aimed at improving the mill’s profitability and cost competitiveness.
“These changes are part of our broader commitment to optimising operations, enhancing sustainability and ensuring the long-term competitiveness of Sappi Europe. By consolidating production on the remaining machines, we will strengthen our ability to serve customers reliably while positioning Alfeld for future market demands,” said Misa Bursac, VP Manufacturing, R&D and Technology.
The closures are part of Sappi’s wider strategic programme to align capacity with market demand and optimise the utilisation of its remaining assets. Going forward, the Alfeld mill will focus on speciality and high-barrier papers. Deliveries to customers will continue without disruption, the company emphasised.
The measures at Alfeld are part of a broader capacity-adjustment initiative. Earlier this month, Sappi closed its PM 2 at the Kirkniemi mill in Finland, while consultations on job reductions at the Ehingen site are still ongoing.