Resolute Forest Products expands operations at two Arkansas sawmills
Resolute Forest Products, a global leader in the forest products industry, has added more than 160 new jobs in the state over the past two years, and as already announced by the company, is investing in its two Arkansas operations through a combined capital program of over $28 million. Resolute acquired sawmills in El Dorado (Union County) and Glenwood (Pike County) in 2020, which represented the company’s initial business investment in the state.
“With 19 million acres of forestland, Arkansas is in a unique position to be a leader in the timber industry,” said Gov. Asa Hutchinson. “Because of that, we want to ensure that we attract companies that will be a good corporate fit. Resolute not only values sustainability, but they work to preserve the natural resources where they do business. We salute their decision to reopen and invest in their sawmill in El Dorado and expand and invest in their Glenwood facility.”
“The capital investments in our Arkansas operations support our business strategy to grow in wood products, particularly in light of the growth we’re seeing for building materials like wood” said Remi G. Lalonde, president and chief executive officer of Resolute. “Growing in the sector also fits with our commitment to sustainability, thanks to its socio-economic and environmental benefits, such as long-term carbon capture and the beneficial impacts of building with wood,” added Lalonde. “We appreciate the support of state officials, local community leaders in Glenwood and El Dorado, and many other stakeholders who warmly welcomed us into their communities.”
“Timber is a vital industry in Arkansas, contributing just over 5 percent of the state’s economy with cash farm receipts valued at more than $400 million,” said Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston. “We are thrilled that a company with the global recognition such as Resolute has chosen to invest here. The company is known for its leadership in corporate social responsibility, sustainable development, and business practices. It will be a pleasure to watch the positive impact they will make in El Dorado and in Glenwood in the coming years.”
Soon after acquiring the El Dorado operation, Resolute made plans to invest over $20 million in the facility, which had been idle since August 2019. This injection of capital provided for improvements to restart the facility while increasing production capacity. The mill began start-up operations in December 2020, and when fully operational, will produce up to 180 million board feet of dimensional lumber and specialty products using timber harvested within a 50-mile radius of the facility. The mill currently employs over 150 individuals from the surrounding community.
“We are grateful for the employment opportunities this brings to our city!” El Dorado Mayor Veronica Smith-creer said. “Of course, it will boost our economy, but it also continues to boost morale as well! All those components work together to produce great products both tangible and intangible!”
Resolute’s ongoing capital investment of $8.4 million in its Glenwood operation will allow the facility to expand its production capacity up to 185 million board feet of lumber and decking, and to date has added nearly 25 jobs to the operation. Work on this capital project began in 2021 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2022.
“Resolute was welcomed to Glenwood with open arms,” Glenwood Mayor B.T. Smith said in a statement. “Our economy just lights up when the mill is producing. The Resolute investment in Glenwood provides new mill jobs and positive impacts on many businesses in the city. Resolute has quickly become a partner in progress.”
“We are pleased to be able to offer employment opportunities to individuals in central and south Arkansas looking for rewarding work with good pay and benefits,” added Angela Gates, Regional Human Resource Director.
Interested candidates can learn more regarding current openings at the company’s career page at www.resolutefp.com/careers.
About Resolute Forest Products
Resolute Forest Products is a global leader in the forest products industry with a diverse range of products, including market pulp, tissue, wood products and papers, which are marketed in over 50 countries. The company owns or operates some 40 facilities, as well as power generation assets, in the United States and Canada. Resolute has third- party certified 100% of its managed woodlands to internationally recognized sustainable forest management standards. The shares of Resolute Forest Products trade under the stock symbol RFP on both the New York Stock Exchange and the Toronto Stock Exchange.
Resolute has received regional, North American and global recognition for its leadership in corporate social responsibility and sustainable development, as well as for its business practices. Visit www. resolutefp. com for more information.