The International Paper Company was founded in 1898. In a few short years, the company was responsible for producing 60% of the country’s newsprint. Unfortunately, the company used asbestos in various products over the years, which meant that a large number of people were exposed to asbestos and subsequently developed mesothelioma.
The History of International Paper Company
International Paper Company’s roots begin with the merger of several established companies. This 17 company merged led to International Paper Company owning a million acres of timberland. The company used its land to harvest the lumber required for production as well as streams as a source of hydroelectric power.
In 1928, the International Power & Paper Company was created as a holding company for the power and paper divisions. The International Paper Company’s power plants used asbestos to make sure that working conditions remained safe. Following the passage of the Public Utility Holding Act in 1935, the company divested its power-related assets.
From the 1920s to 1930s, the company grew substantially in the southern part of the United States because it was easier to grow the vast number of trees necessary for production here. As part of its expansion, the International Paper Company also acquired other companies, which similarly used asbestos in products.
Unlike many other companies that are currently involved in asbestos litigation, the International Paper Company has been able to resolve claims without needing to create an asbestos trust. The company currently employs over 52,000 workers. In 2018, the company had over $20 billion in total revenue.
Asbestos-Containing Products Produced by the Company
The International Paper Company’s products did not directly include asbestos, but instead, the company’s facilities were manufactured using asbestos. This was done to prevent fires from erupting during the paper production process. Some of the products connected with International Paper Company known to have contained asbestos include asbestos siding, corrugated asbestos, and micarta.
Asbestos Exposure Litigation Involving International Paper Company
International Paper Company has been involved in many lawsuits due to asbestos-containing products manufactured by the company.
One widow of a former International Paper Company even pursued a class-action lawsuit against the company. The widow’s husband worked in the Moss Point Mississippi International Paper Company facility from the 1950s to the 1990s. The man was later diagnosed with mesothelioma and ultimately passed away from the illness in 2014.
Another lawsuit involving asbestos exposure was brought against the company by a man who had worked at the company from the 1950s to the 1970s. The man worked as a machine operator and later as a foreman. In 2000, the man was diagnosed with a lung disease connected to asbestos exposure that occurred while he was employed at International Paper Company. Two years later, the man passed away from asbestosis. The deceased man’s loved ones were awarded compensation after his death.
Speak With a Compassionate Asbestos Exposure Lawyer
One of the best things that you can do after you or a loved one is diagnosed with mesothelioma is to obtain the assistance of an experienced attorney. Do not hesitate to contact the Throneberry Law Group today to schedule a free case evaluation. We understand the challenges commonly faced by asbestos exposure victims and will remain committed to fighting for the results you deserve.
