Georgia-Pacific to close Memphis Cellulose mill and Technology and Innovation Center in Tennessee

The decision affects approximately 130 employees at the cellulose mill and 22 employees at the Technology and Innovation Center. The company expects that most positions at both sites will be eliminated by early December.

In the coming weeks, Georgia-Pacific stated that its priority will be to continue safe operations while supporting employees during the transition period. The company will work with affected personnel interested in pursuing opportunities within Georgia-Pacific, other Koch companies, or outside the organization. Support initiatives will include job fairs, placement services, and access to other employment resources.

Georgia-Pacific will also collaborate with local union leadership to begin bargaining the effects of the closure, as outlined in the current labor agreement. The State of Tennessee will determine unemployment benefits, and the company confirmed its cooperation with that process. All employees will receive their due wages and agreed-upon benefits at the time of their departure.

According to the company, this decision was made in the best interest of Georgia-Pacific’s Cellulose business and does not reflect on the quality or dedication of the Memphis team. The closure was driven by several factors, including challenging market conditions for the products manufactured at the facility.

Georgia-Pacific noted that it had explored all available alternatives, including the potential sale of the mill. The company intends to maintain the site and related facilities in a sellable condition for a period of time should an interested buyer emerge.

Georgia-Pacific reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe operational environment during the wind-down phase, while continuing to support employees and honor customer commitments.