UPM to permanently close down the paper machine 3 at UPM Ettringen and to restructure overlapping operations in Germany

(UPM, Helsinki, 8 December 2011, 13.00) – UPM will permanently close down the paper machine 3 at UPM Ettringen paper mill on 14 December 2011 as being uncompetitive. In addition, overlapping operations are being restructured in the supply chain, paper sales and functions in the Ettringen, Plattling and Hürth mills. The negotiations concerning reconciliation of interest and social plan are concluded at the German units except Albbruck.

The aim of the changes is to improve the profitability and cost-efficiency of UPM's paper business in Europe and to adapt the company's paper production to the needs of its global customer base.

The restructuring measures will affect 54 people at UPM Ettringen, 17 people at UPM Plattling and 7 people at UPM Hürth. Personnel reductions will start in January 2012.

During the negotiations concerning reconciliation of interest and social plan, issues such as pension schemes, support for re-employment, relocations within the company, re-training and compensations payments were discussed and agreed.

“The restructuring measures are extremely unfortunate for the affected employees. However, it’s important to face the realities and to look ahead. UPM will support the affected employees in finding a new job,” says Jyrki Ovaska, President, Paper Business Group.

For further information please contact:
Dr. Hartmut Wurster , Executive Vice President, UPM, tel. +49 (0)821 3109 264

UPM Ettringen
UPM Ettringen paper mill manufactures uncoated magazine papers  and newsprint. Its three production lines have a combined annual capacity of 600,000 tonnes. Located in Bavaria, south Germany, the mill employs 530 people. The mill was founded in 1897. 

UPM Hürth
UPM Hürth mill manufactures newsprint from 100 % recycled fibre. The production line has an annual capacity of 310,000 tonnes. Located near Cologne, Germany, the mill employs round 100 people. The mill was founded in 2002.

UPM Plattling
UPM Plattling mill manufactures coated and uncoated magazine papers. Its three production lines have a combined annual capacity of 780,000 tonnes. Located in Bavaria, South Germany the mill employs 460 people. The mill was founded in 1982.

UPM Paper press kit: http://www.upm.com/EN/MEDIA/Press-kits/Business/Paper/Pages/default.aspx

UPM, Corporate Communications
Media Desk, tel. +358 (0)40 588 3284
media@upm.com
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