Shotton Paper Mill – Dark day for Deeside as "Hundreds of Jobs will be lost"says MP

UPM the paper manufacture which owns Shotton paper mill – is to close one of its newsprint machine at the factory, in an effort to improve profit.

UPM Shotton which employs 370 people manufactures standard newsprint, the paper used for newspapers and magazines, the company is looking to reduce production across Europe by 800,000 tonnes, the reduction reflects the terminal decline within the newsprint industry as newspapers move to digital platforms.

Paper production will continue at the plant the company have not said how many employees the closure of the newsprint machine will effect at Shotton however the company says within Europe 550 jobs will be cut.

Shotton has two paper machines – PM1 and PM2 – with a combined annual capacity of 490,000 tonnes and produce 100% recycled newsprint.

Under the plans announced today, PM1 will cease operations by the end of the first quarter in 2015. Meanwhile, it is understood PM2 will not be affected by the changes and will continue paper production at the mill.

Bernd Eikens, Executive Vice President, UPM Paper ENA

“We regret the impact of planned closures on our employees who, even under considerable pressure, have been loyal and committed. However, we have to adapt our operations to the changing market environment – this is the only way for a sustainable future. With the planned actions we will ensure the efficient use of our remaining capacity in Europe,” 

Devastating news that 100 jobs could be lost At Shotton Paper mill, lots of People from CQuay are employed at the site! So near to Xmas!!

— bernie attridge (@bernieatto) November 13, 2014

Mark Tami Deeside and Alyn MP said:

‘I have spoken to the company this morning, although one line will remain in operation, clearly hundreds of jobs will be lost. The company has said that this is due to a reduction in the demand for newsprint and magazine quality paper.

This is a very dark day for Deeside as UPM is one of our quality employers that has invested a lot in the area. There would appear to be no scope for a change in the decision although I will explore every possible opportunity.

Clearly my thoughts are with those people who are at risk of losing their jobs and I understand the consultation will complete early next year. While our area has weathered the economic storm well, this shows that it is still a difficult time.’