Verso Corp. Selling Paper Mills In Wisconsin, Minnesota

Officials with a company that owns paper mills across the country said they’re looking at selling two mills in Wisconsin and Minnesota, a move that could affect around 500 workers.

Verso Corp. spokeswoman Kathi Rowzie said mills in Duluth and Stevens Point might be sold due to external factors, including “impending financial obligations, an accelerated decline in demand for our coated paper products, and an increase in foreign imports resulting from the strong dollar.”

Rowzie said the mills were chosen for their excellent manufacturing abilities, “and talented people that we believe will be attractive to prospective buyers.” She added that it’s too early to say whether any jobs would be impacted by a sale.

Verso doesn’t have any buyers lined up or a timeline for when a decision will be made.

Stevens Point Mayor Mike Wiza said he has reached out to the company. Duluth Mayor Don Ness said he’s confident the Verso mill will turn a profit despite any change in ownership.

The company laid off around 600 workers at mills in Maine and Kentucky this year.