Billerud advances investments in Michigan mills to drive innovation, sustainability, and economic growth
Billerud is advancing steadily on its investments in its Escanaba and Quinnesec mills in Michigan. This strategic initiative is the foundation of the company’s “Way Forward” strategy to enhance operational flexibility, expand product offerings, and support long-term economic and sustainability goals in North America.
“In December 2024, we announced major capital investments in our Escanaba and Quinnesec mills,” said Doug Schwartz, President of Billerud North America. “These investments are vital to optimizing our paper machine capabilities, expanding into packaging materials, and continuing to deliver market-leading graphic papers, specialty label papers, and market pulp.”
Installing the motor control center in the Escanaba Mill’s new woodyard Motor Control Center building
Escanaba Mill woodyard rebuild underway
A major component of this investment is the complete rebuild and modernization of the woodyard at the Escanaba Mill. The project includes the installation of advanced rotary debarking technology and upgraded wood and bark handling systems. Construction of a new Motor Control Center (MCC) is underway and new equipment to support the rebuild is arriving daily. Once completed late this year, the upgrades will:
- Improve safety through modernized equipment and controls
- Enhance chip quality to support future paper and packaging innovations
- Increase operational efficiency and capacity
- Improve sustainability through reduced steam and chemical use and improved boiler performance
New packaging products ready for market
Billerud is also formally launching new paperboard product lines:
- Tribute®, a fully bleached coated white kraft liner and Tribute® Base, a lightly coated white kraft liner: High-quality corrugated packaging products for applications such as food, consumer electronics, apparel boxes and point-of-purchase displays.
- Voyager™ Pts. SB, a single-ply solid bleached sulfate (SBS) cartonboard line: The first of three versions designed for various packaging needs, including folding cartons and food service board applications.
“We are proud of the momentum we have built and the tangible progress taking shape across our operations,” Schwartz added. “These investments represent more than just upgrades. They reflect our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the long-term success of our people and our community. We look to the future with optimism and a strong sense of strategic direction.”
To learn more about Billerud’s packaging materials evolution in North America and Tribute®, Tribute® Base and Voyager™ Pts. SB paperboard lines, visit Packaging materials evolution in North America - Billerud.