CEDAR SPRINGS, Ga. (WDNews) – Employees at Georgia-Pacific’s Cedar Springs Containerboard mill were informed today that the company will permanently close the facility later this year.
The closure, slated to occur by August 1, 2025, will impact approximately 535 jobs, as all positions at the mill will eventually be eliminated.
While the closure was stated to be as a business decision, it’s leaving local workers grappling with uncertainty, emotional strain and concern for the future.
One employee expressed concern for not only their own future but the broader impact on the community.
“You’ve got contractors, loggers, and employees who have worked here for years,” they said. “These are people who spend money in our communities, and now they won’t be able to.”
“That’s my biggest concern. It’s not just the workers, it’s everyone who’s connected to the mill.”
The employee said they believe thousands of dollars that won’t be spent here on food, clothing, or entertainment will hit local businesses hard.
The emotional toll on workers is palpable. For those near retirement age or dealing with health challenges, the news has been especially devastating.
“Some don’t know what to do next,” the employee explained. “There are those who are close to retirement but can’t retire yet. Others are worried about losing their health insurance. It’s scary.”
Georgia-Pacific has promised to support employees during the transition, including opportunities within other Koch companies. For now, production at the Cedar Springs mill will continue for a limited time to fulfill customer commitments. .
As the mill prepares to close, the impact on the workers, their families and the wider community continues to unfold. Employees remain hopeful that new opportunities will arise, but for many, the loss of these jobs represents a significant and difficult shift in their lives.
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