In response to concerns raised by its workforce—who went on strike on September 19—and in light of negative indicators, the management of La Rochette Cartonboard (a company based in Savoy, France, since 1873) issued a press release on September 29. A paper mill specializing in the production of virgin-fiber packaging board, the site employs 280 people and primarily serves French and international clients in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics sectors.
Below are the key excerpts from the statement:
“Amid a severely deteriorated European cartonboard market—characterized by falling volumes, persistent price pressure, and a major restructuring of the sector—La Rochette Cartonboard has recently faced several strains affecting its financial position and operations. A financing solution was secured with the company’s partners in less than three weeks. Despite this rapid response, production flow was inevitably impacted by this exceptional requirement against the backdrop of the company’s turnaround and a deep sectoral crisis. In this context, Mutares has decided to increase its financial support for La Rochette Cartonboard to back the measures initiated by management. This support builds upon the transformation efforts underway for several months. As part of the ‘Towards New Heights’ plan, La Rochette Cartonboard has notably returned to positive EBITDA, achieved ISO 22000 certification, and continued the process of re-qualifying several strategic clients. This support is intended to enable the company to focus its efforts on gradually stabilizing its operations, meeting customer needs, and improving its industrial and commercial performance. La Rochette Cartonboard is simultaneously pursuing the initiatives launched with its shareholder and partners to secure the conditions necessary to continue its transformation and build a sustainable solution for the company.”
On September 29, management met with employee representatives and staff to present the situation and prepare for the next steps.
“Our priority today is to focus our efforts on our business, our customers, and our industrial performance,” stated the company’s executive management. “The renewed support of our shareholder enables us to carry on with this work and keep moving forward alongside all our teams and partners, giving La Rochette cartonboard and its industrial expertise every chance of success.”
V. L.
Photo/La Rochette Cartonboard
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