News Summary
International Paper has announced the closure of its mills in Savannah and Riceboro, impacting around 1,100 jobs. The closures will unfold in phases by the end of September, with affected workers receiving severance and outplacement assistance. Augusta will also see a new retail store opening, providing a boost to local commerce. The mill closures present significant challenges for the local economy, with efforts underway to promote employment opportunities and support for affected workers.
Augusta – International Paper has announced the closure of its mills in Savannah and Riceboro, which will significantly impact around 1,100 jobs across the two facilities. This decision is part of a broader strategic initiative aimed at improving the company’s response to market demands and enhancing overall customer experience.
The mills are expected to shut down in phases, with completions anticipated by the end of September. The affected employees, a mix of hourly and salaried positions, will receive severance packages and outplacement assistance to help them transition to new job opportunities. The closures mark a significant shift for the employees who have contributed to the company’s operations in the region.
In a positive development for the local community, Augusta is also set to receive a new retail store, reducing the need for residents to drive to nearby Columbia or metro Atlanta for similar services. This addition is expected to help bolster local commerce amidst the downsizing in the manufacturing sector.
Impact on the Local Economy
Augusta’s Mayor, Garnett Johnson, emphasized the importance of the manufacturing sector to the city’s economy, describing it as one of the “4Ms”. He urged residents to keep the workers affected by the mill closures in their thoughts, reflecting the close-knit fabric of the community and the mill’s long-standing history.
The Augusta mill, operational since 1960 and originally built by the Continental Can Corporation, has undergone multiple ownership changes, ultimately becoming part of International Paper. Over the past six decades, the facility has been a significant private-sector employer, offering high-paying jobs and playing an essential role in the local tax base.
Reactions from the Community
While some environmental groups have raised concerns about the operations of the mills over the years, local officials, including the mayor, acknowledge the positive impact the mills have had on the community. They highlighted the strong connections many residents have with the mill, including numerous retirees, current employees, vendors, and suppliers familiar with its legacy. The upcoming changes are expected to resonate deeply within the community.
In response to the layoffs and shifting economic landscape, local government officials are making moves to minimize disruption. Updates regarding trash collection and recycling services are being coordinated as the city prepares to transition to a new service provider.
Steps Towards Future Opportunities
Legislative efforts are currently underway to promote timber product demand and seek out new employment opportunities for those affected by the mill closures. Local leaders are focused on creating pathways for affected workers to find new positions within the community and surrounding areas, fostering a sense of resilience in the workforce.
As the city navigates this economic transition, the anticipated closures of the Savannah and Riceboro mills will undoubtedly impact the livelihoods of many local families, reinforcing the need for strategic economic support and community involvement in the coming months. It remains essential for the community to adapt and explore new avenues for growth in light of these significant changes.
In unrelated news, charges were recently announced against a woman for injuring jailers after abandoning her daughter in a grocery store, highlighting ongoing challenges within the community beyond the immediate impact of the mill closures.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Augustans feel pain from paper mill closures
- WFXG: Augusta Mayor responds to paper mill closures
- The Augusta Press: Two more Georgia paper mills closing
- Packaging Dive: Clearwater Paper earnings
- Savannah Now: International Paper to close facilities in Savannah
- Wikipedia: Paper mill
- Google Search: Paper industry closures
- Google Scholar: Paper mills economic impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Paper manufacturing
- Google News: Paper mill closures
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
