PaperWorks Industries Inc., BalaCynwyd, Pa., USA, a paperboard packaging producer, this week announced plans to optimize folding carton production across its network of nine North American converting facilities. As part of this effort, operations at the company’s BaieD'Urfé, Québec, Canada, manufacturing facility will close permanently by the end of February 2016. 

"We considered many different options across our folding carton manufacturing footprint to improve service levels for our customers, strengthen our competitiveness, and support long-term growth. Ultimately, our decision was driven by the desire to position folding carton production closer to geographic areas in which the majority of our customers are located," said Kevin Kwilinski, president and CEO, PaperWorks.

Over the next several months, PaperWorks will work with customers serviced by the BaieD'Urfé facility to ensure a smooth transition to other company manufacturing facilities. The remaining nine converting plants include two in Canada (Kitchener and Hamilton, Ont.) and seven in the U.S. (Mt. Gilead and Greensboro, N.C.; Hastings, Neb.; Baldwinsville, N.Y., Kansas City, Mo.; Lenexa, Kan., and Alexandria, La.).

The BaieD'Urfé facility has been in operation since 1979 and currently manufactures folding cartons for a variety of products including dry and frozen food, beverage, pharmaceutical, household goods, personal care, and institutional foodservice. The 165,000 sq. ft. location employs 150 people. PaperWorkshas developed a comprehensive program to support staff members through this transition, including assistance with securing alternate employment.

Founded in 2008, PaperWorks Industries produces approximately 400,000 tons of 100% recycled paperboard annually for a variety of end uses. Its 19 North American locations employ approximately 2,000 staff members.