Southern Parallel Forest Products is closing its Albertville, Alabama, sawmill, leading to the unemployment of over 60 workers. The closure marks the end of a facility that has been a local industry cornerstone for years. The company filed a WARN Act notice last month disclosing the layoff of approximately 62 employees.
What happened
The Albertville sawmill halted operations after facing challenges that began in October with slow sales, leading to an initial shutdown. A fire in December further damaged the sawmill and stopped production entirely. Difficulties in sourcing replacement parts and the expected months-long repair time prompted the company to permanently lay off workers.
How many employees affected
Approximately 62 employees are affected by the sawmill's closure, according to the WARN Act notice filed by Southern Parallel Forest Products.
Why layoffs happened
The layoffs resulted from a combination of factors, including slow sales that began in October and a fire in December that halted production. The cost and time required for repairs led to the decision to close the sawmill permanently.
Company background
The Albertville plant has changed ownership several times, most recently reopening under new ownership more than a decade ago after operating as a Bowater mill. The sawmill produced millions of board feet of lumber annually.
Industry impact
The shutdown reflects broader struggles in the softwood lumber sector, which supplies material primarily used in home construction. Sluggish homebuilding demand has pushed the lumber industry into a slump, with some mills shutting down shifts or closing completely.
What's next
Only a small maintenance crew remains on site. The company hopes to reopen later this year or in early 2027, once repairs to the fire-damaged portion of the sawmill are finished. Until then, the affected workers are left to seek new employment.
Source: rocketcitynow.com, yahoo.com