THE WHAT? International Paper has broken ground on a new US$225 million corrugated packaging facility in Brandon, Mississippi, as part of efforts to expand manufacturing capacity and strengthen its packaging network across the Mid-South region.

THE DETAILS The 468,000-square-foot greenfield plant will be built on an 80-acre site in the East Metro Center industrial park and is located near the company’s existing Richland box plant. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026, with operations expected to start in the fourth quarter of 2027. Employees from the current Richland facility are expected to transition to the new site once completed. International Paper said the facility will incorporate advanced automation, manufacturing safety systems and operational efficiency technologies designed to improve reliability, product quality and cost performance. The project is also expected to create 150 manufacturing jobs and strengthen supply chain connectivity through partnerships including rail operator CPKC.

THE WHY? The investment supports International Paper’s strategy to modernize its manufacturing network, improve operational efficiency and sustainability performance, and strengthen customer service capabilities across key packaging markets in North America.

Source: PR Newswire