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Paper and packaging producer Sappi has halted production at three of its mills in KwaZulu-Natal, due to the floods in the province that have damaged roads, warehouses, railway lines and homes.
"Our Saiccor, Tugela and Stanger Mills along with its export facilities at the Durban Port have been impacted. Production has been stopped, some inventory is damaged, and deliveries to domestic customers have been affected," said Sappi in a statement on Wednesday.
The paper producer added that its export shipments would also be affected.
The group said there had been no material damage to its plants, and it has insurance for its property and stock. In the meantime, the mills will run on a skeleton crew as a precautionary measure until staff can safely return to work.
"Sappi is deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastating impact of these floods on the people of KwaZulu-Natal. Our condolences go out to the families of those in various communities who have lost loved ones. Over and above support we will be providing in Sappi communities, we will join organised business to provide the necessary support," said Sappi CEO Steve Binnie.
He added that Sappi was working on minimising the impact on its customers and shareholders would be updated on the impact at the three mills once this had been quantified.
