Ahlstrom to Close Its Parchment Paper Mill in Bousbecque, France
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Ahlstrom announced a decision to close its paper mill in Bousbecque, France. The mill has an annual capacity of approximately 12,000 tons of parchment paper — food-safe, heat-resistant coated paper used in baking and cooking.
The paper mill employs 117 people.
In April 2024, Ahlstrom initiated a consultation process with employee representatives on the possibility to divest or close the Bousbecque paper mill in France and to centralize parchment paper production to its Saint-Séverin plant, also in France, to ensure the long-term future and competitiveness of the parchment paper business.
Despite an active search and in-depth dialogue with local stakeholders, Ahlstrom has been unable to find solutions that would allow the Group or a potential buyer to continue operating the Bousbecque mill.
In a press release, the company said, "Ahlstrom engaged in an extensive dialogue with French unions and a unanimous agreement has been reached with regards to the content of the job protection plan and the conditions of support for employees at the Bousbecque plant. This agreement will provide individual support for all employees concerned, including the possibility of redeployment at other Ahlstrom sites, as well as other measures to help them pursue their career plans. These measures include but are not limited to assistance from a specialized firm to find a job, redeployment leave, assistance in setting up or taking over a business, training, and assistance with geographical mobility."
Guillaume Latourrette, Vice President of Ahlstrom's Global Food Packaging business, stated, "Our priority is to provide individual and tailored support to all employees who will be affected in order to find a solution for everyone. We will continue to work closely with local and national authorities and various other players to support the employees concerned."
Ahlstrom said it continues to explore options to divest the property.
