Canton Paper Mill Sale Set for October 1, 2024

Canton, NC -- September 19, 2024: The sale of the historic Canton paper mill, a cornerstone of Haywood County's industrial

landscape, is scheduled for October 1, 2024. Spirtas Worldwide, a St. Louis-based company known for its expertise in industrial redevelopment and demolition, will acquire the 185-acre site.

The sale also includes the landfill and the Lake Logan dam, two assets whose future management remains uncertain.

The mill, owned by Pactiv Evergreen, ceased operations in 2023 after more than a century of operation. Despite the sale, Pactiv will retain accountability for the site’s environmental and economic responsibilities, particularly with regard to wastewater treatment and existing permits. This ensures that the company will continue to play a role in regulatory compliance, particularly in maintaining the environmental standards associated with the site’s industrial history.

While the deal represents a significant change for Canton, questions remain about how Spirtas will manage the landfill and the aging Lake Logan dam, both of which are included in the transaction. Town and county officials are hopeful that Spirtas’ track record in industrial redevelopment will bring new life to the site while ensuring the community's concerns about environmental sustainability are addressed.

The future of the paper mill has been a key issue for Canton and Haywood County, impacting the local economy, environmental health, and the identity of the town. As the October sale date approaches, the community looks forward to more clarity about the site’s future while keeping a close eye on Pactiv’s continued involvement in addressing its responsibilities.

WNCTimes