International Paper bets US$225M on Mississippi box plant as stock sits near 52-week low

USA – International Paper has committed US$225 million to build a 468,000-square-foot greenfield packaging facility in Rankin County, Mississippi, replacing its aging Richland box plant with a purpose-built sustainable operation targeting full production by late 2027.

The new facility, situated on an 80-acre site in Brandon less than 10 miles from the existing plant, will incorporate modern design and updated equipment to deliver what the company describes as the latest innovations in safety and efficiency.

Employees at the Richland facility will transition to the new plant upon completion, with the project designed to cut structural costs, improve reliability and product quality, and sharpen service capability across the Mid-South region.

Strategic Investment Amid Market Pressure

The commitment carries added weight given International Paper’s current market position.

Keith Townsend, group vice president and general manager for IP North America Packaging Solutions East, explained that the investment supports the company’s strategy to optimize its box plant system and focus capital where it drives the greatest return.

By modernizing its Mississippi footprint, the company is strengthening its service model and ability to provide customers with high-quality sustainable packaging solutions.

Restructuring Context

The announcement comes less than two months after International Paper announced in January 2026 that it would split into two separately listed companies, International Paper and EMEA Packaging, a restructuring the group said would allow it to be more focused on its North American transformation strategy.

The new box plant represents a tangible execution of that refocused strategy.

Economic Impact and Political Support

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves hailed the investment as another big win for the state, noting that International Paper’s US$225 million commitment in Rankin County is more proof that Mississippi’s momentum is real and growing stronger every day.

The state has seen historic levels of capital investment as companies recognize Mississippi as a place where businesses can succeed.

Local economic development leaders framed the decision as the payoff for years of deliberate industrial precinct-building.

Noel Daniels, chairman of the Rankin First Economic Development Authority, noted that for years, Rankin First and partners have strategically developed the East Metro Center to attract world-class companies.

The project solidifies Rankin County’s position as a premier industrial hub in the Southeast.

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