The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Manufacturing (16 - 17) Manufacture of wood and paper materials 17.1 - Manufacture of pulp, paper and paperboard 17.12 - Manufacture of paper and paperboard
1,000 jobs Number of planned job losses
Announcement Date
1 September 2025
Employment effect (start)
1 September 2025
Foreseen end date
31 December 2026
Description
DS Smith, the British packaging producer, has announced that it will cut about 1,000 positions in Europe, in Croatia, Germany, Slovakia, and France.
In September 2025, the company announced the closure of its paper mill in Croatia, causing the dismissal of all of its 200 employees at the site by mid-October 2025 DS Smith 2025-HR
In Germany, the company plans to close five production sites in Germany by the end of 2026. Around 500 employees will be affected DS Smith 2025-DE
DS Smith is also considering shutting down its historic manufacturing plant in Martin, Slovakia, a move that could affect roughly 200 employees DS Smith 2025-SK . A final decision is expected by the end of 2025 following internal evaluations and consultations.
In France, the company announced the closure of one of its sites, cutting 100 jobs by June 2026: DS Smith 2025-FR .
In each plant, the company conducts negotiations with employee representatives and trade unions. By the restructuring programme, the company aims to increase efficiency.
In January 2025, DS Smith was acquired by its parent company, International Paper. Together, they employ around 65,000 people worldwide.
Eurofound (2025), DS Smith, Closure in European Union, factsheet number 203870, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/203870.
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