30 Apr. 2026: A spokesperson for the packaging giant told Printweek the business has now entered a period of collective and individual consultation at the site and, subject to timings of this process and if the decision is to proceed with the proposal, the company is anticipating the site would close by the end of November 2026.

In a statement on the proposed closure, the business said: “DS Smith – an International Paper company – is committed to providing best-in-class quality and service to our customers.

“To improve efficiencies across our business and to ensure we respond to the evolving needs of our customers in what are tough trading conditions for the industry, we have undertaken a review of our UK packaging operations.

“As a result of this review, we can confirm a proposal has been made to close a site within our network. A consultation process with employees is ongoing, during which DS Smith (and International Paper) will not comment further.”

The spokesperson said they were unable to confirm how many jobs will be affected until the consultation process has concluded.

CornwallLive reported earlier today (30 April) that some 167 jobs are at risk at the site.

US company International Paper acquired DS Smith last year and quickly announced proposals to close five of its UK packaging sites, including a circa 140-staff box plant in Clay Cross, Derbyshire – which staff, unions and a local MP fought to try and save, and sheet plants in Plymouth, Newcastle, Sheerness, and Wellingborough.

Regarding the proposed Launceston closure, Cornwall councillor for Altarnun & Stoke Climsland Adrian Parsons said in a Facebook post that he was sad to hear the news about the factory, which has been “an iconic business in the town for more than 50 years”.

“As a young lad growing up locally, travelling past the site daily on the school bus, we saw it develop and evolve, from the early days of Tillotsons, to St Regis, and then to DS Smith, eventually, I understand, being taken over by an American company.

“For so many people in Launceston, it has offered opportunity and provided work for local families.

“The potential loss to our town cannot be underestimated and the impact would be widely felt. I sincerely hope meaningful discussions can be held with the owners to find a responsible way forward for all the staff. It is those employees who have made the site the success it is today, and they deserve better.”

News by Richard Stuart-Turner www.printweek.com