Graphic Packaging announced the permanent closure of its Middletown, Ohio, coated recycled paperboard manufacturing facility.
The shutdown, scheduled for June 1, 2025, will affect approximately 130 employees and is part of a broader plan to consolidate operations into more advanced facilities in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and Waco, Texas.
The Waco facility, set to begin commercial production later this year, is a cornerstone of the company’s strategy to enhance operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. CEO Michael Doss emphasized that this move aligns with Graphic Packaging’s commitment to innovation and reducing its environmental footprint through improved water and energy efficiency.
While the closure reflects a strategic shift toward modernized production capabilities, the company has pledged to support affected employees with job placement assistance. This consolidation aims to streamline operations and position Graphic Packaging as a cost-effective leader in the North American paperboard market.
Graphic Packaging, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is a global leader in sustainable consumer packaging. Founded in 1978, the company designs and manufactures packaging solutions primarily from renewable or recycled materials. With over 23,000 employees across more than 100 locations worldwide, Graphic Packaging serves leading brands in the food, beverage, and consumer sectors.
