International Paper announces closure of Savannah, Riceboro locations

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - International Paper has announced that it will close its locations in Savannah and Riceboro.

In a release, International Paper says this announcement is “a series of strategic changes to achieve an advantaged cost position, deliver a superior customer experience and maintain a high relative supply position as part of its ongoing transformation journey.”

The release states the closure will impact about 1,100 hourly and salaried positions. The release also says the company will offer severance packages and outplacement assistance.

The Riceboro and Savannah mills are expected to shut down in phases by the end of September.

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson posted his thoughts on the closure to Facebook:

I am devastated and disappointed to learn of International Paper’s decision to close its Savannah Mill after 88 years in Savannah. Through seasons of change and challenge, International Paper has emerged to be a great corporate partner to our community.

My greatest concern is for the 650 valued employees and families whose lives are directly impacted by this decision, especially during these challenging economic times.

As Savannah has always done, we will rise together. By combining our collective talent, wisdom, and resources, we will work to ensure that our neighbors have new opportunities to provide for themselves and their families.

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson

The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce also released a statement on the closure:

Our Chamber is devastated to hear the news of International Paper’s decision to close its Savannah and Riceboro mills. IP has long been a terrific employer, engaged corporate citizen, and strong partner of the Chamber. In particular, the local leaders at IP have contributed immensely to the betterment of our community in more ways than we can count. We stand ready to work with our state partners at the Georgia Department of Labor, and our local teams at SEDA and RISE to support the employees as they navigate this next step in their lives.

Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bert Brantley

The Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA) sent WTOC the following statement:

Since 1936, the Savannah Mill has stood as a cornerstone of our community and this is a terribly sad day for Savannah. The employees are more than workers – they are our friends, our family and our neighbors. Our hearts go out to them and their loved ones during this difficult time. We will do everything we can to help these highly valuable workers as they pursue new opportunities.

Savannah Economic Development Authority President and CEO Trip Tollison

SEDA also says the Technical System of Georgia and the Department of Labor will be assisting. SEDA’s manufactures have also been aware of.

SEDA also has a job fair planned for September 20.

Georgia’s Speaker of the House of Representatives Jon Burns issued the following statement:

I am deeply disappointed to hear this morning’s news regarding International Paper’s plant closures in Savannah and Riceboro. As a fifth-generation timber farmer myself, I understand firsthand the challenges of facing changing markets and economic instability. These mill closures will undoubtedly deal a devastating blow not only to Georgia’s timber industry, but to the economic fabric of the entire Southeast Georgia region.

I, along with each member of our delegation in the House, remain committed to working tirelessly with our state leaders, federal partners and timber producers to navigate this difficult transition, secure new employment opportunities for the hundreds of citizens impacted by the closures and safeguard the long-term strength and viability of Georgia’s timber industry.

Georgia Speaker of the House Jon Burns

Savannah city leaders have issued a joint statement in response to International Paper’s decision to close its mill. They share their concern for employees and their families:

This news is deeply felt across our community. For nearly a century, the mill has been a cornerstone of Savannah commerce, providing livelihoods, supporting families, and shaping generations of employees.  

Our thoughts are with the hundreds of Savannah employees and their families who will be impacted by this closure. We recognize the dedication, skill, and civic commitment these men and women have contributed to our community over the years. 

While this is a difficult moment, our community will stand with those affected as they navigate the days ahead. 

Savannah is a city that cares for its people and today we acknowledge the employees, their families and the lasting role the Savannah mill has played in our community.

Savannah City Manager Jay Melder

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has also shared a statement on the International Paper closures. He says:

I am deeply concerned about today’s announcement from International Paper and the impact it will have on both their employees in Georgia and our timber growers.

That’s why I’ve mobilized the Technical College System, the Georgia Department of Labor, and the Department of Economic Development to connect affected workers with new opportunities.

Thankfully, the strong state economy we’ve built together over the last seven years has made our job market healthy and resilient, with a steady pipeline of investments and opportunities coming to the regions affected by this announcement.

Since I took office, we’ve announced roughly 27,500 new jobs and $14.2 billion in investment in that area of the state, and that doesn’t include organic growth.

I’ve also asked the Department of Economic Development to make attracting more businesses that benefit our timber growers one of the highest priorities, as we continue to work with the Georgia Forestry Commission and the Georgia Forestry Association in the wake of a difficult year for this vital industry.

As these families and communities work through these changes in the coming weeks and months, we’ll be right by their side to support them.

Governor Brian P. Kemp, Georgia