International Paper plans facility closures, shares steady on NYSE

By Thomas Klein, Operations & Strategy desk. Reviewed prior to publication on 2026-06-29, 12:01.

International Paper (US4601461035) has announced a restructuring step in its North American packaging network. The NYSE-listed group plans to cease operations at four facilities by the end of the third quarter of 2026, according to a June 26 press release cited by StreetInsider and Investing.com.StreetInsider report on the closure plan

What the closure plan covers

The restructuring affects four International Paper sites in the United States. The company will end preprint operations in Richwood, Kentucky, and close its sheet plant in Aurora, Illinois, alongside converting plants in Elk Grove, California, and Barrington, New Jersey, by the end of the third quarter of 2026.Investing.com coverage of the facility closures

Tom Hamic, Executive Vice President and President of Packaging Solutions North America, called the moves "difficult but necessary decisions" designed to strengthen the network and focus investments where they create the greatest value. The group plans to transition affected customers to other facilities within each region to preserve continuity of supply.International Paper press release of June 26, 2026

Operations and employee support

International Paper says the closures are part of a broader effort to optimize its packaging footprint in North America. The company will wind down operations at the Richwood, Aurora, Elk Grove and Barrington sites over a period culminating before the end of the third quarter of 2026, reallocating volumes to other plants in its network.Company statement on network optimization

Employees at the affected facilities are set to receive outplacement assistance, severance and benefits, according to the company statement. Management emphasizes that the changes aim to improve long-term competitiveness in packaging solutions while seeking to provide a seamless experience for customers during the transition period.StreetInsider summary of management comments

The business behind the stock

International Paper generates most of its revenue from fiber-based packaging solutions. The company produces containerboard and corrugated packaging used in e-commerce, food, beverage and industrial applications, alongside pulp and paper products that support hygiene, office and specialty uses.Overview of International Paper’s business segments

Where the stock trades today

The International Paper shares (US4601461035) last closed on June 26, 2026 on the NYSE at 38.84 US dollars, according to MarketBeat data.MarketBeat price and news overview for IP

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, tax advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any securities. All data are based on sources believed to be reliable as of the stated dates and may change without notice.