Cascades Shuts Three Plants, Cuts 114 Jobs
Cascades, a Quebec-based paper manufacturer, is set to shutter three of its production facilities, resulting in the loss of 114 jobs. This strategic decision focuses on reducing its participation in niche packaging markets.
Cascades to Shut Three Plants and Cut Jobs
The closures will impact two plants in Quebec and one in the United States. The company aims to redirect its focus towards more profitable strategic markets.
Details of Closures
- Berthierville Plant: The honeycomb cardboard packaging facility in Berthierville will cease operations, affecting 52 employees.
- Saint-Césaire Plant: Located in Montérégie, this facility produces cardboard partitions for the beverage industry and will close in April, impacting 25 workers.
- York Plant: In Pennsylvania, the York plant, also specializing in honeycomb cardboard packaging, will close by February 19, resulting in 37 job losses.
Cascades noted ongoing declines in demand have adversely affected the profitability of these facilities. As a result, the company believes they can no longer sustain operations at this scale.
Response from the Union
The news of the Berthierville closure sparked immediate concern among workers. Kevin Gagnon, President of the Manufacturing Industry Federation-CSN, expressed the workforce’s dismay. He stated that employees are seeking a meeting with management for clarifications and to explore potential solutions to mitigate the impact on staff.
Discussions between Cascades management and affected employees are anticipated to take place in the coming days. The company has expressed its willingness to explore options that could help reduce the closure’s impact.
