UPM Communication Papers will permanently close its Hürth newsprint mill and shut down one fine paper machine at Nordland Papier in Dörpen (PM 3). The participation processes with employee representatives have been completed. The closures will affect 338 jobs, with graphic paper production at Hürth ending by 31 August 2024, and the Nordland Papier PM 3 ceasing operations by the end of 2024. The closures will reduce UPM's annual production capacity by 330,000 tonnes of newsprint and 280,000 tonnes of uncoated fine paper.
The decision reflects a sharp decline in graphic paper demand driven by digitalization, which intensified throughout 2023. UPM has previously indicated that a significant recovery in demand is not expected, contributing to overcapacity in the market. UPM has engaged in collaborative discussions with the workers council, aiming for socially responsible outcomes for its employees, according to Antti Hermonen, Senior Vice President of Operations at UPM Communication Papers.
