International Paper has begun construction on a major packaging manufacturing facility in Rankin County, Mississippi, marking a significant investment in the company's North American operations and regional supply chain capabilities.
The $225 million project includes development of a new 468,000-square-foot corrugated packaging plant in Brandon, located on an 80-acre site near the company's existing operations in Richland.
Company leaders, public officials, customers, and community stakeholders participated in a groundbreaking ceremony to officially launch the project.
The new plant is expected to enhance International Paper's ability to serve customers across the Mid-South by increasing production capacity and improving operational performance.
According to the company, the facility will manufacture corrugated packaging products used across a variety of industries while supporting supply chain efficiency and sustainability initiatives.
The project is positioned as part of International Paper's broader strategy to modernize its packaging network and strengthen long-term competitiveness in growing markets.
The Mississippi facility will incorporate modern automation systems and advanced manufacturing technologies intended to improve productivity, product quality, workplace safety, and operational reliability.
Investments in automated production systems continue to accelerate across the packaging and manufacturing sectors as companies seek greater efficiency while addressing labor challenges and increasing customer demand for high-quality packaging solutions.
The facility's design reflects these industry trends by integrating technology-driven processes from the outset.
The project is expected to create approximately 150 manufacturing jobs and generate additional economic activity through construction, supply chain spending, and long-term industrial investment.
State and local leaders view the development as an important addition to Mississippi's manufacturing base and a catalyst for future economic growth in Rankin County.
The facility's location near existing International Paper operations is expected to support workforce continuity and operational efficiencies once production begins.
Construction activities are scheduled to begin in June 2026, with the facility expected to become operational during the fourth quarter of 2027.
Once completed, employees currently working at the company's Richland facility are expected to transition to the new plant, creating a more modern production environment with expanded capabilities.
The project represents one of the larger manufacturing investments announced in Mississippi this year and underscores continued demand for industrial construction tied to packaging, logistics, and supply chain infrastructure.
The International Paper project highlights ongoing investment in advanced manufacturing and industrial facilities across the Southeast. For contractors, engineers, suppliers, and developers, the project reflects sustained demand for large-scale industrial construction supported by reshoring initiatives, supply chain modernization, and sustainability-driven capital spending.
As manufacturers continue upgrading facilities and expanding capacity, similar projects are expected to create opportunities throughout the industrial construction sector, particularly in regions with strong transportation networks and established manufacturing workforces.
Source: Tissue Online North America.
