MEMPHIS, Tenn. — March 20, 2026 — International Paper has announced plans to construct a new 468,000-square-foot sustainable packaging facility in Rankin County, Mississippi, reinforcing the company’s long-term strategy focused on operational excellence, customer service, and strategic growth across the Mid-South.
The company’s Board of Directors approved the advancement of the $225 million greenfield investment following a comprehensive evaluation of its North American manufacturing footprint. The new facility will be developed on an 80-acre site in Brandon, Mississippi, located less than 10 miles from International Paper’s existing Richland (Jackson) box plant.
Designed to modernize operations and enhance production capabilities, the new facility will replace aging infrastructure with advanced manufacturing technologies that improve reliability, product quality, and service performance. The investment is expected to strengthen International Paper’s cost structure while supporting growth in key market segments throughout the region.
Construction is slated to begin in June 2026, with operations anticipated to commence in the fourth quarter of 2027. Employees currently working at the Richland facility are expected to transition to the new plant upon completion.
“This investment supports our strategy to optimize our box plant system and focus capital where it drives the greatest return,” said Keith Townsend, Group Vice President and General Manager, IP North America Packaging Solutions East. “By modernizing our footprint in Mississippi, we are strengthening our service model and enhancing our ability to deliver high-quality sustainable packaging solutions to customers.”
Mississippi leaders emphasized the project’s significance for regional economic growth.
“This is another major win for Mississippi,” said Governor Tate Reeves. “International Paper’s $225 million investment demonstrates the state’s continued momentum in attracting capital investment and creating new opportunities for our workforce. Mississippi remains a place where companies can grow and succeed.”
Local economic development officials also highlighted the strategic importance of the project’s location within the East Metro Center industrial corridor.
“For years, Rankin First and our partners have worked to position East Metro Center as a destination for world-class industry,” said Noel Daniels, Chairman of the Rankin First Economic Development Authority. “International Paper’s decision validates that long-term vision and further strengthens Rankin County’s role as a hub for advanced industrial innovation in the Southeast.”
The new facility underscores International Paper’s continued commitment to delivering value for customers, shareholders, and communities while maintaining high standards in safety, sustainability, and operational performance.
About International Paper
International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) is a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions, focused on helping customers protect products, optimize supply chains, and advance environmental stewardship. Through innovation and collaboration, the company supports long-term value creation for its stakeholders worldwide. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.
Media Contact: newsroom@ipaper.com
Investor Contacts: Mandi Gilliland; Michele Vargas
