Exploring the Legacy & Future of Finch Paper in Glens Falls
Finch Paper in Glens Falls is a leading figure among the region's key industries. Established in 1865, Finch Paper has played a vital role within the local community and across the broader American paper industry. Read on to learn more about Finch Paper:
History of Finch Paper
An Environmentally Responsible Leader
Rumors of Closure
The New CEO
Finch Paper Today
Jobs at Finch Paper
The Rich Tapestry of Finch Paper’s History
Finch Paper LLC, founded in 1865 and celebrating 160 years of continuous operation in 2025, is a remarkable example of American manufacturing resilience and innovation.
From 1865 to Early 1900s
Originally established as Finch, Pruyn & Company by Jeremiah and Daniel Finch along with Samuel Pruyn, the company began by manufacturing lumber, canal boats, lime, and prized black marble.
Over time, it expanded its holdings and operations, notably acquiring over 100,000 acres of Adirondack forestland by 1900, making it the largest lumber business along the Hudson River.
In the early 20th century, Finch transitioned into the paper industry with the construction of groundwood pulp and paper mills. It pioneered sustainable forestry practices by hiring the nation's first professional forester and steadily grew its capacity and product lines.
Throughout the Great Depression and into the postwar era, the company continued to innovate - constructing a bleaching facility, expanding paper offerings to high-quality magazine and book paper, and adopting new pulping technologies.
From Mid-1900s to 2010s
From the 1960s through the 1980s, Finch expanded production, invested in cleaner energy like biomass boilers, and introduced popular paper brands such as Finch Opaque and Finch Fine. The 1990s saw modernization of facilities and the introduction of recycled and digital papers.
In 2007, under new ownership by Atlas Holdings LLC and Blue Wolf, the company was renamed Finch Paper LLC. The firm sold its Adirondack forestland to The Nature Conservancy, though Finch foresters continue to manage the land sustainably.
In the years since, Finch has upgraded key machinery, improved wood-processing operations, introduced inkjet printing capabilities, and made significant strides in energy efficiency.
By 2015, it had expanded its product portfolio to include high-bright business papers and specialty inkjet substrates, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, quality, and environmental responsibility.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
Finch Paper has long been recognized not just for its products but for its leadership in sustainable paper manufacturing.
Since the introduction of its "feet in the forest" philosophy, Finch has ensured that the wood pulp used is sourced from responsibly managed forests, with stringent tracking systems in place.
The company's production processes emphasize renewable energy, notably its longstanding use of hydropower since 1938, and its biomass cogeneration facility, which significantly reduces waste and carbon emissions.
None of the wood or pulp comes from endangered or threatened forests, and more than 80% of the pulp is made on the premises, using wood from forests they manage or from other responsible landowners.
Additionally, they are 100% compliant with the 2016 Clean Air Act amendment.
Addressing Rumors With Resilience & Expansion
While other paper mills faced closures around 2024, rumors that Finch Paper would fall into the same fate were headed off by the company.
Leadership at Finch has consistently debunked closure rumors, viewing industry shifts as opportunities to adapt and thrive.
The company's proactive approach has allowed it to diversify its product offerings, continuing to serve a wide array of markets from high-quality printing papers to innovative digital and converting solutions.
Leadership at the Helm: Introducing CEO Drew Gardner
In February 2025, Drew Gardner stepped up as the new CEO of Finch Paper. Gardner, who brings experience from GE and also from Atlas (the Finch parent company), is committed to tradition and innovation when it comes to the Company.
Wondering how many employees Finch paper has? Gardner oversees about 600 people at the Glens Falls papermill, plus another 80 employees at a plant in Michigan.
Under his guidance, Finch is continuing to enhance its production capabilities, while expanding into new market segments that promise growth and stability.
Finch Paper Today: A Model of Industrial Adaptability & A Community Cornerstone
Today, Finch Paper exemplifies resilience and adaptability, producing a diverse range of products including commercial printing papers and technical specialties. They turn out 260,000 tons of paper products a year!
Despite the secular decline in certain paper markets, Finch’s strategic diversifications, such as its push into food packaging and other burgeoning sectors, showcase its robust approach to market challenges.
Finch values community involvement, and supports local charities like Double H Ranch and the Glens Falls Hospital Foundation.
Career Opportunities at Finch Paper
Interested in jobs at Finch Paper in Glens Falls? For those open to being a part of the company’s enduring legacy, they offer a variety of roles with enticing benefits packages. Current openings can be explored at their website at finchpaper.com.
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