AbitibiBowater shuts down 2 paper machines in Thunder Bay

AbitibiBowater is shutting down the No. 4 and No. 5 paper machine in Thunder Bay, Ontario later this month. The shutdown is indefinite and will affect 360 employees.

The high operating costs at the Thunder Bay mill (hydro in particular), combined with the poor market conditions, led AbitibiBowater to the decision.

AbitibiBowater spokesman Jean-Philippe Cote said the company is leaving the door open to a possible restart of the No. 5 machine.

Restart decisions will be be dependent on market conditions, and will also be influenced by the outcome of discussions between the union and Ontario government officials around labour costs, fibre and power input costs.

The shutdown of the 2 machines will begin on August 21st. The reduction in fibre required for the mill will have an immediate impact on woodland operations.

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AbitibiBowater shuts down paper machines