International Paper (IP) has outlined plans to establish a 468,000ft² packaging facility in Rankin County, Mississippi, US.
The move comes after the company’s board approved the development of a $225m greenfield site in central Mississippi following a review of its operations.
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To be built on an 80-acre site in Brandon, the facility will be located less than ten miles from the company’s existing plant in Richland.
According to IP, the facility will replace older infrastructure and is expected to improve service capabilities and product quality in the Mid-South region.
The move is also expected to enhance the company’s cost position.
Mississippi governor Tate Reeves said: “This is another big win for Mississippi. International Paper’s $225m investment in Rankin County is more proof that Mississippi’s momentum is real and growing stronger every day.
“We’re seeing historic levels of capital investment because companies know Mississippi is a state where businesses can succeed. This project will create new opportunities for Mississippians and continue our state’s record-breaking economic development success.”
The project is due to commence in June 2026.
Operations are projected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2027, with staff from the current Richland plant set to move to the new location once construction is complete.
IP group vice-president Keith Townsend said: “This investment supports our strategy to optimise our box plant system and focus capital where it drives the greatest return.
“By modernising our footprint in Mississippi, we are strengthening our service model and ability to provide customers with the highest quality sustainable packaging solutions.”
This announcement follows IP’s January disclosure to separate its business into two independent companies.
The North American operations will remain under the International Paper name while its packaging businesses across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa are set to form a new entity.
The North American operations will incorporate assets from both International Paper and DS Smith, which it acquired last year.
