Greif to exit coated recycled paperboard, close Austell mill

Greif is exiting its coated recycled paperboard business and will close its paperboard mill in Austell, Georgia, removing about 120,000 tons of annual production capacity. The company expects the mill to cease operations by the end of 2026, with about 90 job losses, as part of a strategy to concentrate on businesses where it holds a leading market position.

Why this mattersRemoving 120,000 tons of annual capacity tightens North American recycled paperboard supply and confirms Greif's retreat to segments where it holds leading positions.

• Greif will close its coated recycled paperboard mill in Austell, Georgia
• The mill removes about 120,000 tons of annual production capacity
• Operations are expected to cease by the end of 2026
• The closure will result in about 90 job losses
• The mill also produced uncoated recycled paperboard and gypsum facing and backing paper grades
• Greif will serve affected uncoated recycled paperboard customers via its broader North American mill network
• The Sweetwater mill in Austell, Georgia has now ceased operations
• Affected employees are receiving severance and career support
• Greif has confirmed its full exit from the coated recycled paperboard market
• The Austell, Georgia mill is named the Sweetwater mill
• Gaylord Benner, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Sustainable Fiber Solutions at Greif, commented on the closure
• Greif cites the plant's limited network integration and cost position as reasons for the closure
• Greif will offer severance and transition support to the around 90 affected employees