The International Paper Savannah closure has sent shockwaves through Georgia, as the company announced it will shut down its historic Savannah mill along with its Riceboro facility. This decision, part of what the company calls a “strategic transformation,” is set to impact more than 1,100 employees across both sites.

International Paper stated the closures are part of “a series of strategic changes to achieve an advantaged cost position, deliver a superior customer experience, and maintain a strong supply position.” The company emphasized its ongoing transformation journey as the reason behind this move.

The mills, which have long been significant employers in the region, will shut down in phases by the end of September. The company confirmed that severance packages and outplacement assistance will be provided to all affected employees.

Story Highlights

• International Paper Savannah closure and Riceboro shutdown by September

• 1,100 workers affected, including 650 in Savannah

• Company cites strategic cost optimization

• Severance packages and job support announced

• Job fair scheduled for September 20

Community Reacts to International Paper Savannah Closure

The news of the International Paper Savannah closure has deeply affected local leaders and residents. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson expressed his concern in a Facebook post, describing the decision as devastating after the mill’s 88 years in the community.

“I am devastated and disappointed to learn of International Paper’s decision to close its Savannah Mill after 88 years in Savannah,” Johnson wrote.

“My greatest concern is for the 650 valued employees and families whose lives are directly impacted by this decision, especially during these challenging economic times.”

Mayor Johnson added that the city will work together to support those impacted, stating:

“As Savannah has always done, we will rise together. By combining our collective talent, wisdom, and resources, we will work to ensure that our neighbors have new opportunities to provide for themselves and their families.”

Chamber of Commerce and Economic Leaders Respond

The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce also shared its disappointment over the International Paper Savannah closure, calling the company a long-time “terrific employer and engaged corporate citizen.”

Bert Brantley, President and CEO of the Chamber, said:

“Our Chamber is devastated to hear the news of International Paper’s decision to close its Savannah and Riceboro mills. IP has long been a terrific employer, engaged corporate citizen, and strong partner of the Chamber.”

Brantley assured that the Chamber will work with the Georgia Department of Labor, SEDA, and RISE to assist employees during the transition.

The Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA) echoed similar sentiments. In its statement, SEDA President and CEO Trip Tollison said:

“Since 1936, the Savannah Mill has stood as a cornerstone of our community, and this is a terribly sad day for Savannah. The employees are more than workers – they are our friends, our family, and our neighbors.”

Tollison added that SEDA will “do everything possible” to help the displaced workers. The organization has scheduled a job fair on September 20 in partnership with Georgia’s Technical System and Department of Labor.

Impact on Georgia’s Timber Industry

The International Paper Savannah closure is also raising concerns about the state’s timber industry. Georgia Speaker of the House Jon Burns, himself a fifth-generation timber farmer, issued a strong statement:

“These mill closures will undoubtedly deal a devastating blow not only to Georgia’s timber industry, but to the economic fabric of the entire Southeast Georgia region.”

Burns assured that state and federal leaders will work together to secure new employment opportunities and protect the long-term strength of Georgia’s timber sector.

What’s Next for Affected Workers?

While the International Paper Savannah closure marks the end of an era, local and state organizations are mobilizing to assist displaced workers. Job fairs, workforce training programs, and industry networking efforts are already underway to ensure that employees find new opportunities as quickly as possible.

The International Paper Savannah closure is more than just a corporate decision—it marks the end of an 88-year chapter in the city’s industrial history. With more than 1,100 jobs lost, the impact will be felt across families, businesses, and Georgia’s timber economy. While the company cites strategic transformation as its reason, the focus now shifts to rebuilding opportunities for the affected workforce. Community leaders, economic agencies, and state officials have pledged support through job fairs, retraining programs, and collaborative initiatives. As Savannah faces this major economic shift, the commitment to resilience and recovery will define the path forward.

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