Oct. 15, 2007 - Longview Fibre on Friday said that within the next several months it will cease production on its two oldest, smallest and highest cost paper machines — #2 and #8 — and no longer produce machine glazed bleaches and colors, certain machine glazed natural specialties, bleached and natural ribbed extensible (Ductlkraft) and machine-creped specialties.

The result of the machine closures will ultimately affect about 300 workers, with the reduction of 200 of those positions over the next two to six months, the company said.

Longview said it will do its best to offer customers alternative grades produced on machines not affected by this announcement, but if alternatives are not available, it would support customers in transitioning to other suppliers for the products.

The products being discontinued represent a relatively small volume related to Longview's overall business and small reduction in overall manufacturing capability, the company added.

"By proactively identifying our optimal product mix and streamlining our mill operations, we are enhancing our ability to compete in our markets and positioning Longview Fibre to generate improved results that will sustain our business and provide for future growth," said Frank McShane, Longview's COO..

Over the next several months, Longview said that it plans to optimize the resulting pulp and paper mill configuration to focus on efficiently producing its remaining grade categories and maintenance of essential equipment, resulting in a much more.

“Our goal is to provide a stable, long-term platform for our operations and enhance our competitiveness in the marketplace,” McShane said. “Regrettably, the streamlining of the mill will result in a reduction in the number of employees needed to operate the facility. However, the changes announced [Oct. 12] will not occur overnight. We will work closely with our employees and our union representatives in the coming months, as the transition occurs.”

SOURCE: Longview Fibre