Imerys restructures in N America, Kaolin plant affected

Atlanta, Georgia -- Imerys North American Performance Minerals & Ceramics (NAPMC) remains unprofitable, and the dramatic rise in fuel and energy costs has exacerbated the situation, says Imerys. The company has therefore decided to end production of paper grades of kaolin at its plant in Twiggs County, Georgia

Due to continuing difficulties, said the company, "Imerys NAPMC has decided to concentrate on a more streamlined and efficient business platform for the production of specialty-grade products at the Dry Branch operation. NAPMC will cease production of paper grade products at the Dry Branch facility and will be discontinuing operation of its number 3 Calciner, a 45,000 ton per year production unit, by the end of December 2005."

This will mean the loss of about half the 119 workers at theTwiggs County plant. The company's plants in Sandersville and in north Georgia would not be affected by the restructuring at Dry Branch, said Imerys.

Approximately 80 employees will remain at the Dry Branch operation following this restructuring. NAPMC believes that by narrowing its focus to this more streamlined platform it will have a better chance to return to profitability at this facility.