ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – Billerud is advancing steadily on its investments in its Escanaba and Quinnesec mills. The strategic initiative is the foundation of the company’s “Way Forward” strategy to enhance operational flexibility, expand product offerings, and support long-term economic and sustainability goals in North America.
“In December 2024, we announced major capital investments in our Escanaba and Quinnesec mills,” said Doug Schwartz, President of Billerud North America. “These investments are vital to optimizing our paper machine capabilities, expanding into packaging materials, and continuing to deliver market-leading graphic papers, specialty label papers, and market pulp.”
A major component of the investment is the complete rebuild and modernization of the woodyard at the Escanaba Mill. The project includes the installation of advanced rotary debarking technology and upgraded wood and bark handling systems. Construction of a new Motor Control Center is underway, and new equipment to support the rebuild is arriving daily.
“The rebuild of the woodyard is a critical investment in the future of our Escanaba Mill, resulting in a safer, more efficient and sustainable operation,” Billerud North America Vice President of Escanaba Mill Operations Jeremy Menard said in a statement provided to WZMQ 19. “It enables us to produce top-tier wood chips essential for the high-quality products our customers depend on. This upgrade supports Billerud’s shift toward sustainable packaging, broadens our capabilities, and reinforces our commitment to a more resilient future. Most importantly, it helps secure long-term stability for our employees, partners, and the broader community that relies on the mill for economic growth and opportunities.”
Once completed late this year, the upgrades will also improve safety through modernized equipment and controls and improve sustainability through reduced steam and chemical use and improved boiler performance.
Billerud is also formally launching the following new paperboard product lines:
Tribute®, a fully bleached coated white kraft liner and Tribute® Base, a lightly coated white kraft liner: High-quality corrugated packaging products for applications such as food, consumer electronics, apparel boxes and point-of-purchase displays.
Voyager™ Pts. SB, a single-ply solid bleached sulfate (SBS) cartonboard line: The first of three versions designed for various packaging needs, including folding cartons and food service board applications.
“We are proud of the momentum we have built and the tangible progress taking shape across our operations,” Schwartz added. “These investments represent more than just upgrades. They reflect our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the long-term success of our people and our community. We look to the future with optimism and a strong sense of strategic direction.”
To learn more about Billerud’s packaging materials evolution in North America and Tribute®, Tribute® Base and Voyager™ Pts. SB paperboard lines, visit the company’s website: Packaging materials evolution in North America – Billerud.
