International Paper has recently broken ground on its new packaging facility in Rankin County, Mississippi, marking a major milestone in the company’s strategic growth and long-term investment in the Mid-South region.
Company leaders, state and local officials, customers, project stakeholders, and community partners gathered on May 20, to commemorate the start of the project, which will include construction of a new 468,000-square-foot corrugated packaging plant on an 80-acre site in the East Metro Center.
The $225m greenfield facility, located less than 10 miles from International Paper’s existing Richland box plant, will strengthen manufacturing and service capabilities across the Mid-South region. Designed to improve reliability, product quality, and cost position, the new facility supports growth in key market segments while reinforcing the company’s commitment to operational excellence, sustainability, and customer-focused innovation.
Construction is expected to begin in June 2026, with operations anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2027. Employees at the existing Richland facility are expected to transition to the new plant upon completion.
“This groundbreaking represents an important step forward for International Paper, our customers, and the communities we serve across the Mid-South,” said Keith Townsend, Group Vice President and General Manager, IP North America Packaging Solutions East. “The Brandon facility will strengthen our manufacturing network with modern capabilities designed to improve safety, reliability, and operational performance, while positioning us to support long-term growth and deliver even greater value to our customers.”
“We are proud to partner with International Paper on their new box plant in Brandon, Mississippi, located on the CPKC Railway,” said Coby Bullard, CPKC Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing. “This strategic relationship highlights the benefits of integrated supply chain alignment, anchored by CPKC’s seamless, transnational rail network, which provides efficient, sustainable transportation solutions for International Paper to connect with markets across North America while supporting economic development in Brandon and the surrounding region.”
The new facility is expected to incorporate the latest advancements in manufacturing safety, automation, and operational efficiency, supporting International Paper’s ongoing commitment to delivering value for customers, shareholders, employees, and communities.
