Although paper manufacturer Kruger announced in July it would cease production of coated paper at its Trois-Rivières, Quebec, mill for an indefinite period starting Oct. 30, company officials said this week it will now maintain one of the two production lines in operation.
The reason? Kruger says it has implemented a more efficient production method and reducing production costs. The move will will preserve 120 jobs; the production line will remain in operation as long as market conditions are favorable.
The other production line, as well as the debarking and groundwood pulp plants, will be shut down indefinitely on Oct. 13, two weeks earlier than initially planned. About 280 employees will be laid off gradually to facilitate the shutdown of the affected departments.
Founded in 1904, Kruger is a producer of publication papers, tissue, lumber and other wood products, corrugated cartons from recycled fibers, green and renewable energy, and wines and spirits. The company says its annual coated production will drop from 130,000 tons to 75,000 tons.