Georgia-Pacific announced plans to invest $425 million in a new manufacturing facility for its Dixie brand. The company said the investment will create more than 220 jobs in Jackson, Tennessee. “This investment underscores our commitment to the Dixie brand and our dedication to providing high-quality products and services that meet the needs of our consumers,” said Georgia-Pacific CEO Jim Hannan.

“Although we have invested to expand existing sites, this is the first new Dixie® plant the company has built since 1991,” explains Fernando Gonzalez, president of the consumer business at Georgia-Pacific. “This added capacity will help us meet the needs of our customers as consumer demand for high-quality, durable paper plates and bowls continues to grow.”

This investment highlights the bright future of the pulp and paper industry in the Southeast. With its business-friendly environment and large population of skilled laborers, the Southeast continues to attract investment from many industries. While the headlines recently have been automotive-focused such as Hyundai’s multi-billion dollar investment in Savannah, Georgia, this part of the country has long been home to the pulp and paper industry. For one reason, the area is home to large tracts of land planted with trees specifically for paper production. Secondly, there are many rivers that provide water and power for production as well as railways for transporting raw materials.

Construction is expected to begin this year with the facility starting production in 2024. Facilities that process pulp into paper products have large footprints and feature complex process piping work. The construction timeline for a facility of this magnitude will require large teams of mechanical contractors who specialize in a number of trades.

This investment is great news for the people of Jackson, Tennessee. The new manufacturing facility will create high-paying jobs in the area. If you’re looking for a career in construction, this could be an excellent opportunity to get involved with a project that will have a long-term impact on the community.