Domtar Corporation announced plans to optimize fluff pulp manufacturing at its Plymouth mill in Plymouth, NC. The streamlining measures will strengthen the mill’s position in the global fluff pulp markets.

The restructuring, which is expected to be completed by mid-2017, includes the permanent closure of the small pulp dryer and idling of related assets, in addition to a workforce reduction of approximately 100 positions. The streamlining process will also right-size the mill to an annualized production target of approximately 380,000 metric tons of fluff pulp. The Plymouth mill will continue to produce Lighthouse Fluff, the benchmark grade for high-quality fluff pulp.

“This action at Plymouth along with the start-up of fluff pulp production at Ashdown will optimize Domtar’s fluff pulp manufacturing network and strengthen our position in the growing fluff-pulp market,” says Domtar president and CEO John D. Williams. “We remain committed to the Plymouth mill, where we have made significant investments in the past several years. These changes will prepare the mill for long-term, sustainable success.”

Fluff pulp is bleached softwood cellulose fiber used worldwide in absorbent applications such as baby diapers, feminine hygiene and adult incontinence products.