Selma Riverdale Mill E1755887964240 — Riverdale mill in Selma (International Paper)

International Paper announced major strategic changes this week including one impacting their Alabama facility

The company said it would be investing $250 million in its Riverdale mill in Selma, converting a machine to produce containerboard. The news comes at the same time as two contatinerboard mills in Georgia will be closing along with a packaging facility.

“While difficult, these decisions are essential to positioning International Paper for long-term success, enabling us to focus on the geographies, customers, and products where we can create the most value. Our investment in the Riverdale mill reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable service while strengthening our advantaged cost position.”
Tom Hamic, Executive Vice President and President of International Paper’s North America Packaging Solutions

The Riverdale conversion is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2026.

The two Georgia mills will shut down in phases by the end of September. These combined changes will still result in a net reduction of the company’s annual containerboard capacity by approximately one million tons.

International Paper in Alabama

International Paper is headquartered in Memphis, employing more than 65,000 people with operations in more than 30 countries. Net sales in 2024 were $18.6 billion.

Back in 2018, the company invested $522.7 million into the Riverdale mill to “optimize the facility’s product mix and boost productivity.”

The company currently has 10 locations across the state including: