Kruger to invest $32.4M at Kamloops Pulp Mill

On Sept. 12, Kruger Inc. announced it will invest $32.4 million in its Kamloops Pulp Mill to implement innovative technology intended to diversify its product portfolio and expand into fast growing markets.

In addition to improving Kruger Kamloops’ competitiveness, performance and environmental footprint, this initiative is expected to contribute to securing 340 jobs at the Mill, as well as 1,000 indirect jobs in B.C.

The project was announced during a press event held at the Kruger Kamloops facility. Those in attendance included: Brenda Bailey, B.C.’s Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation; Eric Ashby, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Kruger Inc.; Roman Gallo, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Kruger’s Pulp and Paper Division; andIrene Preto, General Manager of the Kamloops Pulp Mill.

The governments of Canada and British Columbia are contributing $5 million each to this project through the Investments in Forest Industry Transformation (IFIT) program (Canada) and the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund.

Environmental benefits

Reportedly, Kruger Kamloops’ new pulp washing system will enhance the plant’s effectiveness and reduce inorganic material and talc in the finished product. The process will also result in a reduction in bleaching chemical usage.

This technology will be combined with advanced controls and AI-based capabilities to ensure that the pulp consistently meets the most stringent requirements for specialty products that require ultraclean pulp.

Slated for completion in 2026, the company says the project will enable Kruger Kamloops to increase production of ultra-clean pulp from 43,000 MT in its first year up to more than 115,000 MT annually in its third year and beyond.

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