In a significant milestone for both the company and the region, Sofidel America held a groundbreaking ceremony last week to mark the beginning of a major expansion of its paper manufacturing plant in Duluth, Minnesota.
The event brought together key leaders including Sofidel CEO Luigi Lazzareschi, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and Duluth Mayor Roger J. Reinert.
The project aims to transform the existing mill into an integrated, state-of-the-art production site. Once completed, the plant will house not only advanced manufacturing capabilities but also a fully automated warehouse to support product storage and distribution.
The automated warehouse, designed to streamline logistics and reduce carbon footprint, will complement Sofidel’s broader mission to lead in sustainable tissue production. The facility will produce paper for hygiene and household use, further strengthening the company's supply chain presence across the U.S.
Sofidel’s Duluth expansion is part of its long-term strategy to increase capacity and operational efficiency while maintaining its commitment to environmental responsibility — a core value for the Italian-based paper giant.
Construction is expected to progress throughout the year, with operations at the upgraded facility ramping up in phases starting in 2026.
Sofidel is an Italian paper group founded in 1966, specializing in the production of tissue paper for hygiene and domestic use, including toilet paper, paper towels, and facial tissues. Operating in 13 countries with over 6,600 employees, it is one of the global leaders in the tissue industry.
