Cascades to close packaging site in Niagara Falls, New York

Cascades Inc. has announced plans to permanently close its corrugated medium manufacturing facility in Niagara Falls, New York, as part of its packaging production optimization strategy.

According to Cascades, production at the site will end no later than Sept. 3.

“This is a difficult decision, but one that is an essential part of our focus on optimizing the performance of our packaging sector," says Jean-David Tardif, executive vice president of packaging for Cascades.

“The future growth momentum for Cascades and our customers is very promising, and we are well positioned to capitalize on opportunities for strategic and sustainable growth. We know what we need to do to get there—simplify, optimize and focus.”

The Kingsey Falls, Quebec-based paper packaging company says the closure aligns with its commitment to support strategic growth by focusing on profitability and customer service levels.

RELATED: Cascades sells South Carolina tissue mill

Production at the Niagara Falls facility began in 1987. The site has an annual production capacity of 200,000 short tons of virgin and recycled corrugated medium and uses old corrugated containers and mixed paper as feedstock.

A second paper machine at the facility was closed in 2023. Closure costs for the site are estimated at approximately $5 million and the move will effect 123 employees.

In a statement provided to WGRZ in Niagara Falls, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers union that represents more than 50 employees at the facility says:

“This announced closure occurs during broader economic uncertainties, including tariffs on our ally, Canada, which has impacted the business environment for Cascades, a Quebec-based company. We will continue to call for an immediate end to job-killing tariffs on Canada. We urge Cascades management, and our state, local and federal partners, to work with us cooperatively during this difficult time.”