Facility in Focus: Smurfit Westrock’s Florence, South Carolina Paper Mill
Investing in our Florence mill strengthens efficiency, reliability and quality while supporting customers, employees, and community
Smurfit Westrock’s kraft linerboard mill in Florence, South Carolina, has been an integral part of the community since 1963, playing a critical role in our containerboard network while supporting hundreds of local jobs. A significant investment positioned the mill to meet evolving customer needs by strengthening its operational efficiency and production capabilities.
“Containerboard is essential to the packaging supply chain, which means it’s essential to our customers,” said Kenny Knipschild, president of North America mill operations. “This investment enhances our ability to deliver the quality, scale and performance required by today’s dynamic market, while continuing to make a meaningful impact in the local community.”
From Installation to Impact
As part of the most recent investment, a new 330-inch advanced paper machine housed in a dedicated building and supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure, including electrical and piping systems, was constructed and installed. Designed to produce containerboard basis weights from 23 lbs. to 56 lbs., the machine expands our portfolio of high-performance grades while delivering enhanced board quality and consistency for customers.
The project has delivered improved performance and product quality while significantly reducing maintenance capital costs. It has also generated manufacturing cost savings across fiber, energy, maintenance, and overhead, while supporting incremental sales through better trim, quality, and capacity.
Building a Stronger Region Together
Ensuring the mill remains a competitive, high-performing asset reinforces our commitment to the region. “Our investment here in Florence sustains jobs that support local families and keep talent in the area,” said Jon Miller, general manager. “When we invest in our operations, we’re contributing to the wellbeing of our employees, neighbors and communities.”
Community engagement is core to the culture in Florence. The team supports more than 10 nonprofit organizations and collaborates with local education and community partners through career fairs, technical education, and hands-on learning to strengthen the future workforce.
Delivering Real Results
This investment goes beyond equipment upgrades — it strengthens the foundation of the mill and the people who power it every day. Modernized technology has improved reliability and safety, reduced unplanned downtime, and equipped employees with the necessary skills for today’s manufacturing environment.
Customers see the impact through enhanced product performance, improved consistency and a more resilient, reliable supply chain. “Modernizing the Florence mill wasn’t just about adding capacity— it was about building a safer, more reliable operation, empowering our team, and enabling long-term, sustainable performance across our system,” said Miller.
Looking Ahead
The Florence project reflects Smurfit Westrock’s commitment to strengthening our network and creating enduring value for shareholders, customers and communities. Follow our Facility in Focus series for updates on strategic projects that enhance efficiency and product quality and continue to set new standards for performance and innovation across the industry.