International Paper Announces Closure of San Antonio Facility
In a surprising move for the local workforce, International Paper has decided to close its cardboard production facility located on Pop Gunn Street in San Antonio. The decision will affect 89 employees, who have been given notification of their layoffs as the company prepares to shut the plant in mid-November.
What We Know So Far
The news came as International Paper informed the Texas Workforce Commission about the closure. The affected roles include equipment operators, mechanics, shipping staff, and electricians. These workers play vital roles in the day-to-day operations at the plant, which is also known as a sheet feeder plant.
In September, the employees received word of the impending closure. While the layoffs are certainly distressing for those involved, the company has stated that the affected employees may apply for positions at other International Paper facilities, providing a glimmer of hope for those seeking alternative employment opportunities within the company.
International Paper’s Operations in San Antonio
Interestingly, International Paper isn’t just shutting down the Pop Gunn facility. The company also operates a container plant at AT&T Center Parkway. However, it’s still unclear what the future holds for that location. When asked about the status of the AT&T Center Parkway plant, the company was unable to provide immediate answers. This uncertainty leaves many wondering what comes next in the local job market.
Wider Implications for International Paper
This closure is part of a larger trend for International Paper, as they plan to lay off about 650 employees globally, with 400 of those layoffs happening in Memphis, where the company is headquartered. For context, International Paper employs around 39,000 people worldwide, indicating that while the layoffs are significant, they are a small fraction of the company’s overall workforce.
This isn’t the first time International Paper has had to make tough decisions regarding their facilities in San Antonio. Back in 2012, the company also closed a cardboard production plant located at 3323 E. Commerce St., resulting in approximately 117 layoffs. The previous closure was attributed to the company’s considerable investment of $4.3 billion in acquiring Austin-based Temple-Inland Inc., which led to the conversion of the Pop Gunn facility from box production to cardboard production.
The Future of Local Jobs
As the community processes this news, many are left contemplating the impact this will have on the local economy and job market. The ripple effect of these layoffs is not just about the individuals who will lose their jobs; it also affects families and the surrounding community.
For those affected by the layoffs, this may be a challenging moment, but there might still be opportunities on the horizon. Job seekers are encouraged to keep an eye on openings at other International Paper facilities and explore potential employment options. For those who are ready to explore new career paths, reaching out to local employment services and job fairs can also provide additional assistance.
Conclusion
As we await more details regarding the future of International Paper’s operations in San Antonio, one thing is clear: the upcoming closure of the Pop Gunn facility will have lasting implications. The loss of jobs is always a tough pill to swallow, but it also paves the way for new opportunities in the future. Let’s stay hopeful and support those who are most impacted in our community.
