WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WI (WSAU) — Last week the city of Wisconsin Rapids was hit with another surprise announcement.
Sonoco announced they will be closing their core and tube operation, which will result in the loss of 70 jobs according to a release from the Department of Workforce Development. Mayor Shane Blaser says he was just as surprised as everyone else by the news.
“They still need cores and tubes [as part of their process.] So I don’t know if they will be produced somewhere else or if it’s being consolidated somewhere else- I have not heard. What’s unfortunate is there will be some job losses,” said Blaser.
The news does not impact Sonoco’s mill operation in Wisconsin Rapids. “The mill operation in town has been a great partner and we’ve had great communication with them. Hopefully, they have future plans for our community. We’re just kind of in wait and see mode.”
The company does have outposts elsewhere in the state as well in areas like Green Bay, Wausau, and the Fox Valley.
Blaser expects the DWD rapid response team will help some of the impacted workers, though Sonoco said many of the impacted jobs are union positions that have bumping rights. Additionally, he notes that there are plenty of other good jobs in the city as well for anyone who wants one.
Other topics Blaser discussed with WSAU’s Mike Leischner include:
Start of video- Sonoco announcement
4:30- Recent tour of Matalco
6:40- Former Verso property update
8:30- Community-wide train survey
12:20- Creation of Historic Preservation Commission
