Paper plant to close with 165 job losses

A major packaging company has confirmed it is closing a large paper plant, which will lead to 165 job losses.

International firm DS Smith began consulting with employees earlier this year at its site in Launceston in Cornwall, where it has been a significant local employer for nearly 60 years.

It said the "difficult decision" to shut was made "after careful consideration of counter proposals raised," adding production at the site will finish in November.

The company noted it recognised the decision was "disappointing for those impacted," adding it would support its employees "through this period".

It comes after workers and their families protested against the proposed closure of the site in June, warning it would be a "huge loss" for the area.

Hayley Sanders, whose relatives work at the factory, said at the time the aim was "to raise awareness of how important the site is to the town and community" and "the affect that it (closing) could have on families in the future".

A spokesperson for DS Smith said: "We are fully committed to supporting all our employees throughout this period, recognising the impact the change will have on them, their families, and the wider community."

Discussions around the future of the site in Launceston are ongoing, but no decisions have been made.

In 2024, DS Smith made 70 roles redundant at its site in Louth in Lincolnshire.

Consultations at its sites in Plymouth, Derbyshire, Newcastle, Sheerness, and Wellingborough in 2025 resulted in a decision to close them.

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