Shop-floor problem
On November 2, Sonoco announced a $40 million investment over two years to modernize and expand uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) production at its Richmond, Virginia mill. The announced approximately 9,000 tons of additional annual capacity is a target, not output already available for orders.
Evidence to check
Construction is expected to begin in early 2027. The first phase targets sheet formation, profile control, density, cleanliness and production capability. A second phase, targeted for completion by the end of 2028, covers pulping, water systems, automation and employee experience. Sonoco says it plans to maintain the mill’s existing roughly 120,000 tons of annual output during construction. That is a continuity objective, not a zero-downtime guarantee.
Practical output
URB buyers should separate current grades from grades potentially affected by the planned upgrade. Ask the supplier for phase-by-phase shutdown schedules, allocation of existing grades, qualification timing, updated basis-weight, caliper, strength and cleanliness specifications, and backup-mill arrangements. Sonoco says Richmond supplies board for paper cans and lightweight Tan Bending Chip, but has not published customer allocations or launch dates for specific new grades. Korean importers must add freight and customs time to any mill-level lead-time estimate.
When to hold application
Do not add the proposed 9,000 tons to today’s available supply or present planned quality improvements as qualified product performance. Confirm the stated low-disruption objective against actual production and delivery records as construction progresses.
About the Author
PackingMaster: PaperPackLog editor. We interpret public paper-packaging information for purchasing, quality and shop-floor practice.