Ahlstrom announced that it has completed the co-operation negotiations with employee representatives at its Kauttua production line in Finland. The conclusion of the negotiations is to close down the production line in Kauttua during the second quarter of 2015, the company said.

The Kauttua plant manufactures base paper for masking tape. As there is significant overcapacity globally in the masking tape markets, especially in Europe, Ahlstrom said it has sought ways to improve the efficiency of its masking tape business. Ahlstrom manufactures base paper for masking tape also in Pont-Audemer, France and Longkou, China. The consolidation of the company's masking tape production is part of the earlier announced rightsizing program.

The Kauttua production line is part of Ahlstrom's Food business area and it employs 21 people, whose employment will be terminated as the line will be closed down. The company said it will make every effort to support the employees affected.