SPI separately announced that it would not operate the mills, but instead will construct at least one new, state-of-the-art sawmill and lumber planing operation on the Shelton waterfront site. SPI anticipates its new mill will be operational sometime in 2017.
Simpson will continue to own its railroad properties, tracks, tidelands and other properties in the Shelton Harbor area, and is considering options to re-purpose those facilities. Simpson Door Company also continues to operate, employing 188 people in nearby McCleary, Wash.
Simpson expects the mill operations in downtown Shelton and Dayton to wind down over the next 60 days. The company has told its employees that most of the Shelton-area jobs will be eliminated. Simpson employs about 270 people in its Shelton-area operations. In addition to paying severance, company leaders are trying to secure government economic aid or retraining support for displaced employees.
According to Dave McEntee, Simpson Lumber Company President, the decision to sell follows the company’s decision to exit the lumber business and focus on Simpson Door. “SPI is a leader in the forest products business in Washington and I am encouraged by the company’s plans to invest long-term in manufacturing and jobs here in Shelton,” McEntee said.
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions. It is anticipated that the sale will be completed this summer.
Simpson Lumber Company’s roots in the forest products business began in 1890. In addition to its lumber operations, the company also has a subsidiary: Simpson Door Company in McCleary, Wash.
Sierra Pacific Industries is a third-generation, family-owned forest products company based in Anderson, California.
