Catalyst Paper, Richmond, B.C., Canada, this week decided to indefinitely curtail the No. 9 paper machine, one of three machines at its Powell River, B.C., operation. This decision is fully market-related as the company is facing a lack of orders and a declining market for the paper manufactured on paper machine No. 9, which was temporarily curtailed on October 27, Catalyst noted.    

 

"This is a difficult, but necessary decision that supports Catalyst's commitment to align mill operations and production with market demand," said Joe Nemeth, president and CEO. "We are committed to making the Powell River operation successful for the long term, and will be working with our employees, leadership, and the unions on a plan to make improvements to secure our sustainability." 

 

It is anticipated that this change will result in the loss of 50 jobs at the Power River operations and the Surrey Distribution Centre, Catalyst's product distribution hub. The company will be working with employees and the Union locals on a transition plan to mitigate the impact of this decision.

 

Catalyst produces diverse specialty mechanical printing papers, newsprint, and pulp. With three mills in British Columbia, Catalyst has an annual production capacity of 1.5 million metric tons.