Essity to close tissue manufacturing operations in New York

Hygiene and health company Essity has announced that, in order to drive the growth of its Tork professional hygiene brand, it will close its tissue manufacturing operations in New York state and consolidate production at its other U.S. sites. This closure will include the South Glens Falls paper mill, Greenwich converting facility and Saratoga warehouse/distribution center.

“It is never easy to decide to close a manufacturing operation,” said Michael Olive, plant director for Essity’s sites in New York state. “Our operations in upstate New York have had a long, productive history and have always benefited from the extraordinary commitment of our employees. This decision is in no way a reflection on the skills, capabilities or dedication of our employees here. We are grateful for their decades of service and the support we have always received from the surrounding community.”

In recent years, Essity has launched successful, high-demand innovations under the Tork brand, such as Tork PeakServe. Therefore, the company will continue focusing on manufacturing and selling these value-adding proprietary products while sunsetting products that are not as relevant in today’s market. This action will support the growth of Tork-branded products and innovative solutions, positively impacting Essity’s ability to continually reinvest in North America.

 

The South Glens Falls paper mill will cease papermaking operations immediately, while the Greenwich converting facility and Saratoga Springs warehouse/distribution center will remain open and continue to operate as long as needed to ensure a smooth transition for customers. There are approximately 300 employees across the three locations.

Layoffs of employees at the South Glens Falls location will begin on or around Oct. 20, 2023. Layoffs at the Greenwich and Saratoga Springs locations will begin at later dates. All employees will receive at least 90 days’ notice of the date of their layoff. In addition, Essity will provide impacted employees with a severance package and an opportunity to apply for and transfer to other Essity manufacturing facilities.

Essity remains committed to breaking barriers to well-being through its products and services, while contributing to a healthy, sustainable and circular society. Manufacturing of Essity’s health and hygiene products will continue uninterrupted at facilities in Wisconsin, Kentucky, Ohio and Alabama.