7 Sept. 2026: A strategic review of the DS Smith operations in the UK has identified potential changes to its paper business to ensure it can supply the right products to our customers and remain cost competitive in the long term. 

The company is of the view that these proposals would support the realization of Kemsley’s position in the UK as a cost-effective, future-ready mill positioned in higher margin and growth segments, with CAPEX focused on enabling best-in-class performance.

As a result of the review, the company has proposed the closure of the PM4 paper machine. At the same time, they are proposing an additional investment of approximately £20m in enabling new grades and increasing volume on Paper Machine 6 (PM6).

The proposed closure, timeline and conditions are now subject to consultations with employees’ representatives.

The proposed investments into Kemsley, on top of other significant investments over recent years, would reinforce DS Smith’s continued commitment to the mill and UK market.

While they believe these proposals are the right ones for the future of the business, the company recognises the impact they will have on some of its ncolleagues. Therefore, the immediate priority is to support those affected through a fair and respectful consultation process.

Kemsley Mill houses three machines with the following capacity data:

• PM3 FOURDRINIER
  Grammage range: 115-280 g/m2
  Production: 290,000 tonnes/year
  Speed max: 1,100 m/min
  Trim max: 5.45 m
• PM4 FOURDRINIER
  Grammage range: 125-210 g/m2
  Production: 250,000 tonnes/year
  Speed max: 770 m/min
  Trim max: 6.20 m
• PM6 FOURDRINIER
  Grammage range: 85-130 g/m2
  Production: 290,000 tonnes/year
  Speed max: 1,100 m/min
  Trim max: 6.75 m

Kemsley Mill, courtesy DS Smith