Verso Considers Sale of Duluth, Stevens Point Mills

DULUTH (AP) - Verso Corporation says its restructuring could include mill closings, including those in Duluth and Stevens Point, Wisconsin.

The paper maker said in its third quarter earnings that it is exploring opportunities to raise funds through potential sales of certain mills, including Duluth, Stevens Point, Wickliffe in Kentucky and the Jay facility in Maine. The Kentucky mill is already idle and the Maine facility recently cut production.

Verso is reporting a net loss of $11 million in the third quarter. It blames sales declines on an increase in offshore imports and reduced demand for coated paper. The company says restructuring could include Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

The Duluth mill has nearly 300 employees.