Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, USA 04 August 2015 -- PaperWorks Industries, Inc., a leading integrated North American paperboard packaging supplier, announced plans today to optimize folding carton production across its network of nine North American converting facilities. As part of this effort, operations at the company's Baie D'Urfé, Québec, Canada manufacturing facility will close permanently by the end of February 2016.

"We considered many different options across our folding carton manufacturing footprint in order to improve service levels for our customers, strengthen our competitiveness and support long-term growth. Ultimately, our decision was driven by the desire to position folding carton production closer to geographic areas in which the majority of our customers are located," said Kevin Kwilinski, president and chief executive officer, PaperWorks.

Over the next several months, PaperWorks will work with customers serviced by the Baie D'Urfé facility to ensure a smooth transition to other company manufacturing facilities. The remaining nine converting plants include two in Canada (Kitchener and Hamilton, Ont.) and seven in the United States (Mt. Gilead and Greensboro, N.C.; Hastings, Neb.; Baldwinsville, N.Y., Kansas City, Mo.; Lenexa, Kan., and Alexandria, La.).

The Baie D'Urfé facility has been in operation since 1979 and currently manufactures folding cartons for a variety of products including dry and frozen food, beverage, pharmaceutical, household goods, personal care and institutional foodservice. The 165,000 square foot location employs 150 people. PaperWorks has developed a comprehensive program to support staff members through this transition, including assistance with securing alternate employment.

About PaperWorks Industries, Inc.

Founded in 2008, PaperWorks Industries, Inc. (PWI) is a leading, integrated North American full-service packaging provider of recycled paperboard and specialized folding cartons. The company is committed to the highest sustainable forestry and procurement standards. Product certifications include the Forest Stewardship Council, Sustainable Forestry Initiative and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forestry Certification. PWI manufactures approximately 400,000 tons of 100% recycled paperboard annually for a variety of end uses. Its 19 North American locations employ approximately 2000 staff members. For more information: www.paperwrks.com.