Billerud is making significant progress on its previously announced investments in its Escanaba and Quinnesec mills in Michigan, reinforcing the company’s long-term strategy for growth, innovation, and sustainability in North America.
The initiative is a central part of Billerud’s "Way Forward" roadmap, designed to modernize operations, expand into new packaging segments, and strengthen the company’s position in both graphic and specialty paper markets.
A major component of this effort is the complete rebuild and modernization of the woodyard at the Escanaba Mill. The project includes the installation of advanced rotary debarking technology and upgrades to wood and bark handling systems. Construction of a new Motor Control Center is currently underway, and new equipment is arriving daily. Once completed later this year, the woodyard upgrades are expected to improve worker safety, enhance chip quality to support future innovations, increase operational efficiency and capacity, and reduce environmental impact by lowering steam and chemical use while improving boiler performance.
At the same time, Billerud is bringing new packaging products to market. The company is formally launching Tribute® and Tribute® Base, two bleached white kraft liners designed for corrugated packaging in food, electronics, apparel, and retail display applications. In addition, it is introducing Voyager™ Pts. SB, a single-ply solid bleached sulfate (SBS) cartonboard intended for folding cartons and food service applications. This is the first of three SBS grades being developed.
Doug Schwartz, President of Billerud North America, stated that the progress being made reflects the company’s broader ambitions. “These investments represent more than just upgrades. They reflect our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the long-term success of our people and our community,” he said.
With work progressing steadily and new product lines entering the market, Billerud is signaling a clear and focused direction for its future in North America’s evolving packaging landscape.
Billerud is a Swedish company specializing in high-performance paper and fiber-based packaging materials. With operations in Europe and North America, including mills in Michigan, the company serves customers in over 100 countries. Billerud focuses on sustainability, innovation, and providing renewable packaging solutions that support the circular economy.
