Westrock Layoffs: What You Need to Know

Westrock's recent layoffs have left many employees and their families wondering what's next. Over 2,000 jobs were cut across the company's various facilities.

These layoffs were announced in August 2023, affecting multiple locations worldwide. Westrock's restructuring efforts aim to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.

The layoffs primarily targeted production and manufacturing roles, with some administrative positions also impacted. This move is part of Westrock's ongoing efforts to adapt to changing market conditions and customer needs.

Westrock Layoffs have been a recurring issue for the company. Over 1,000 employees have been laid off in the past few years due to various reasons such as recessions, downsizing, and cost-cutting measures.

Westrock has been shutting down facilities to optimize its footprint. For instance, a container plant in Bridgeview, Illinois was closed in March 2025. This is not an isolated incident, as the company has been cutting positions and shutting down facilities in various locations.

Smurfit Westrock announced a significant layoff in October 2024, cutting 800 positions.

Smurfit Westrock has been making significant changes to its operations in recent years. The company has been closing facilities and cutting positions to optimize its footprint and reduce costs.

One example of this is the closure of a container plant in Bridgeview, Illinois, which was announced in March 2025. This move is part of the company's ongoing efforts to streamline its operations.

In October 2024, Smurfit Westrock cut 800 positions as part of its efforts to reduce costs and optimize its footprint. This move was made to create opportunities for growth and cost reduction.

Here are some key dates and insights related to Smurfit Westrock's layoffs:

These changes are part of a broader trend of companies reevaluating their operations and making significant changes to stay competitive.

Announcements of layoffs and closures at Placon, Supremex, and WestRock seemed to slow down in July after a busy May and June.

New York, North Carolina, and New Mexico are among the states where cuts are taking place.

The economic impact of the WestRock layoffs is a serious concern for Bay County and the city. Over 450 people will lose their jobs due to the mill shut down.

The ripple effect of these layoffs will be felt across the county and city. Many others who don't work directly for WestRock will be affected by the closure.

The mill's production relies on a network of support staff, including those who work in industries like transportation, maintenance, and supplies. The loss of WestRock's operations will impact these workers as well.

The shutdown will have a significant impact on the local economy, with many families and businesses relying on the mill for income.

If you've been laid off at Smurfit Westrock, it's essential to take your time to review your severance offer carefully. Don't sign anything immediately, as your employer's deadline to sign isn't legally binding.

You have up to two years from your termination date to file a claim, so take your time to review the offer and get legal advice. Your severance package can include more than a lump sum, such as regular bonuses, commissions, and continued health or dental benefits.

Severance often applies even when employers claim cause, misclassify you as a contractor, end a fixed-term contract early, or make major changes to your job. This means you may still be eligible for severance pay in these situations.

To estimate what you're owed, you can use the Severance Pay Calculator. This will help you understand your entitlements and plan your next move. You should also document everything, including termination letters, severance offers, and correspondence with your employer.

Here are some key things to keep in mind as you navigate your severance package:

Get legal advice to ensure your severance package reflects your full rights. Contact an employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to review your situation and advise you of potential next steps.

Smurfit Westrock has been through some significant changes in recent years. The company has announced several layoffs due to recessions, downsizing, restructuring, cost-cutting measures, and shifts in operational focus.

In March 2025, Smurfit Westrock closed a container plant in Bridgeview, Illinois, as part of an ongoing footprint optimization. This move was a result of the company's efforts to adapt to changing market conditions.

Smurfit Westrock has also been cutting positions to achieve cost reduction and growth opportunities. In October 2024, the company laid off 800 employees as part of these efforts.

Here are the key dates related to Smurfit Westrock's layoffs: