By MATT SMITHMIER

BRANDON, Miss. – International Paper – a global producer of sustainable packaging solutions – has broken ground this month on a $225 million packaging facility in Rankin County, Miss.

International Paper manufactures sustainable packaging, pulp, and paper products worldwide and is headquartered in Memphis, Tenn.

Rankin County is 14 miles east of Jackson, the state capital.

The 468,000-square-foot facility is a greenfield project to be built on an 80-acre site in Brandon, close to the company’s existing box plant 10 miles away. Employees at that existing facility will transfer to the new plant once it opens.

The plant is expected to produce 1.8 billion square feet of corrugated packaging annually.

The company said the future plant will strengthen its cost position, improve reliability and product quality and enhance service capabilities across the region. The modern design and equipment will also provide the latest in safety and efficiency for employees.

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said he’s excited about the large investment in the state.

“This is another big win for Mississippi … [and] more proof that Mississippi’s momentum is real and growing stronger every day,” he said. “We’re seeing historic levels of capital investment because companies know Mississippi is a state where businesses can succeed.”

Construction is expected to begin in June with an expected completion date of late 2027. A general contractor has not been publicly identified.