Last week, CPKC took part in a groundbreaking ceremony marking the start of construction of International Paper ‘s new 468,000-square-foot sustainable packaging facility in Rankin County, Mississippi, a facility to be directly rail-served by CPKC.
“We are proud to collaborate with International Paper to serve their new box plant,” said Coby Bullard, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing. “This strategic relationship highlights the benefits of integrated supply chain alignment, anchored by CPKC’s seamless, transnational rail network. We provide 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 $225 million greenfield facility, located less than 10 miles from International Paper's existing Richland box plant, is expected to begin operations in the fourth quarter of 2027.
“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.”
"Rankin First and our partners have strategically developed the East Metro Center Industrial Park to attract world-class companies and seeing a global leader like International Paper choose Rankin County for this state-of-the-art facility validates that vision and work," said Noel Daniels, Chairman, Rankin First Economic Development Authority. "This $225 million investment is a monumental win for our economy, secures 150 high-quality manufacturing jobs for our workforce, and positions Rankin County as the premier hub for industrial investments in Mississippi and the Southeast. We are proud to partner with International Paper as they build for the future right here in our community."
The project is a significant expansion of rail-served industrial development in Rankin County. Once operational, the facility is expected to drive increased freight volumes, strengthen supply chain connections, and create new economic opportunities across the Mid-South region. The CPKC team collaborated with Rankin First Economic Development and multiple stakeholders to provide rail access and site readiness.
