BATTLE CREEK, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – As its footprint continues to grow in Kalamazoo, the Graphic Packaging International paper mill in Battle Creek is preparing to shut down in August, with 200 layoffs expected.
Battle Creek Mayor Mark Behnke told WWMT-TV that while the closure is disappointing, it didn’t come as a shock because two years ago, company leaders at Graphic Packaging told the city its Battle Creek factory would close. Still, Behnke said it will happen earlier than he anticipated.
The company said the closure is based on industry supply and demand, and follows a $600 million expansion at its factory in Kalamazoo.
That plant is the subject of a federal lawsuit for allegedly violating air pollution guidelines.
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