Cascades’ expansion triggers growth

Strategic investment strengthens state’s paper sector

Cascades Inc., a Canadian paper and packaging firm founded in 1964, grew as it embraced its  mission of improving the well-being of people, communities, and the planet by offering sustainable and innovative solutions that create value.

With nearly 65 operating facilities in North America, the firm employs almost 9,500 people specializes in value-added packaging, hygiene, and recovery solutions. In 2001, Cascades decided to invest in Wisconsin, acquiring a plant in Eau Claire, which is now part of the Cascades Tissue Group.

The 776,000 square-foot plant on Forest Street manufactures products such as parents rolls (large-format industrial paper rolls), paper towels, bathroom tissue, and paper napkins and continues a proud heritage of papermaking in Wisconsin.

Cascades targets expansion in Wisconsin

To improve company-wide efficiencies and remain on the cutting edge of paper technology, Cascades decided to embark on an expansion project at the Eau Claire plant.

The company’s $6 million investment includes the installation of two new production lines, including a state-of-the art converting line—one of the most advanced in Cascades’ asset portfolio.

The expansion followed a detailed analysis of its existing network, distribution channels, optimization rates, and growth opportunities. Cascades projected that the expansion would significantly boost production volume and create 36 new jobs.

“This investment, which we announced in 2023, is part of the repositioning of our tissue paper production platform. With fewer sites and a strong commercial strategy, we are now better positioned to face changing market conditions and support our customers in their growth,” said Cascades President and CEO Hugues Simon.

The expansion and new equipment are enabling the company to introduce premium product lines, increase converting capacity, and improve integration rates.

WEDC support helps drive expansion

To help make the project a reality, WEDC provided up to $200,000 in performance-based state tax credits tied to capital investment and job creation.

“Wisconsin’s paper industry leads the nation because of our companies’ commitment to innovation,” said Sam Rikkers, WEDC’s deputy secretary and chief operating officer. “Cascades’ expansion in Eau Claire exemplifies that tradition of looking forward and embracing sustainability. It’s only natural that when the time came for them to expand, they chose to grow in Wisconsin.”

Simon credited WEDC for its support of the Cascades project. “The addition of this converting line to the Eau Claire facility allows Cascades to strengthen its presence in Wisconsin while increasing our converting capacity, integration rate, and coverage to better serve our customers,” he said.