Valmet restructures Swedish, Polish plants, targeting US$23.1M annual savings

EUROPE – Valmet has initiated change negotiations affecting up to 355 jobs across its manufacturing sites in Sweden and Poland, including the potential closure of its Sundsvall facility, as part of a broader drive to achieve €100 million (approximately US$115.7 million) in cost efficiencies by 2030.

The Finnish industrial technology company plans to shutter its Sundsvall site, affecting up to 170 positions, while restructuring operations at its Gothenburg facility (55 roles) and Jelenia Góra site in Poland (130 roles).

The proposals aim to improve long-term competitiveness in the Biomaterial Solutions and Services segment, which serves the pulp, paper, and packaging industries.

By the Numbers: Savings Targets

Valmet’s Global Supply unit is targeting €100 million (approximately US$115.7 million) in cost efficiencies by 2030 through procurement, logistics, and production optimization.

The restructuring actions represent the main footprint measures currently identified.

If the proposed changes proceed, annual net savings could reach approximately €20 million (approximately US$23.1 million), with full effects anticipated by early 2027.

The company employs approximately 18,500 people globally and reported net sales of about €5.2 billion (approximately US$6.0 billion) in 2025.

The restructuring follows a company-wide strategy update announced in June 2025, which set new financial targets including 5 percent organic net sales growth and a 15 percent comparable EBITA margin by 2030.

Strategic Context and Packaging Implications

The Biomaterial Solutions and Services segment, encompassing packaging materials, graphic papers, and tissue, has a strategic mission of “advancing circularity” under Valmet’s Lead the Way strategy.

The restructuring aims to streamline the segment’s manufacturing network while maintaining customer delivery commitments during any transition period.

For the packaging sector, Valmet’s operational adjustments come amid sustained demand for sustainable materials.

The company earlier this year launched Bioneer press roll covers manufactured from recycled, renewable, and bio-based raw materials, which reduce fossil resource dependence and offer up to 12.2 percent lower CO₂ emissions compared to standard products.

Employee Support and Implementation

Negotiations with employee representatives will proceed according to local regulations in Sweden and Poland. Valmet has committed to supporting affected employees while ensuring uninterrupted deliveries and project execution to customers.

Aki Niemi, Executive Vice President of Global Supply, noted that the company remains focused on adapting to market conditions amid ongoing global economic uncertainty impacting customer decision-making.

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