{"id":7786,"date":"2025-06-19T09:40:10","date_gmt":"2025-06-19T13:40:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.packagingindustrynews.com\/?p=7786"},"modified":"2025-06-19T09:40:10","modified_gmt":"2025-06-19T13:40:10","slug":"unite-opposes-ds-smiths-derbyshire-packaging-factory-closure","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.packagingindustrynews.com\/?p=7786","title":{"rendered":"Unite opposes DS Smith\u2019s Derbyshire packaging factory closure"},"content":{"rendered":"


\n<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n \n <\/picture>
The new management is reportedly planning to restructure UK operations. Credit: Karolis Kavolelis\/Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

UK\u2019s trade union Unite is opposing the proposed closure of DS Smith\u2019s packaging factory in Derbyshire as consultations commence.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The factory in question is the Clay Cross site, which has nearly 140 jobs at risk.<\/p>\n

DS Smith, a supplier of retail packaging in the UK, was recently subject to a \u00a35.8bn takeover by Memphis-based International Paper.<\/p>\n

The new management is reportedly planning to restructure UK operations, potentially closing five sites by the end of 2025.<\/p>\n

The planned closures could affect around 300 roles, raising concerns among workers and their families.<\/p>\n

Unite represents the engineers at the Clay Cross site, which has been a significant employer in the local community for generations.<\/p>\n

Despite International Paper\u2019s assurances during the acquisition process that they would not close UK plants, these proposed closures have emerged.<\/p>\n

Earlier in 2025, the company reported increased sales and earnings, largely attributed to the DS Smith acquisition.<\/p>\n

The Clay Cross site has been recognised for its operational success and health and safety, making it one of DS Smith\u2019s highest performing locations in the UK.<\/p>\n

The decision to consider this site for closure is reportedly linked to required infrastructure investments, particularly a new roof.<\/p>\n

This recommendation for a roof replacement stemmed from a visual inspection conducted in 2021.<\/p>\n

However, the site team has been managing the roof for several years and is not currently requesting its replacement.<\/p>\n

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: \u201cWorkers who were given assurances that their jobs would be safe now face paying the price for a profitable company\u2019s greed. It is an utter disgrace that International Paper is playing fast and loose with workers\u2019 livelihoods.<\/p>\n

\u201cUnite is prepared to fight every step of the way to protect our hardworking members\u2019 jobs at Clay Cross.\u201d<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n