International Paper Announces $225M Facility in Rankin County

New plant will create hundreds of jobs and modernize operations in the region

Mar. 23, 2026 at 2:53am

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International Paper has announced plans to build a $225 million facility in Rankin County, Mississippi, which will create hundreds of jobs and modernize operations in the region. Brandon Mayor Butch Lee said the city has been preparing for years for such a project, ensuring infrastructure like sewer and water is in place to meet the company's needs.

Why it matters

This investment not only modernizes production but also solidifies Rankin County's role as a growing hub for industrial development, emphasizing continued economic growth and new opportunities for Mississippians.

The details

The new plant will replace older infrastructure, bringing more modern and efficient operations to the area while improving product quality and service across the Mid-South. Construction is set to begin this summer, with the plant expected to be fully operational by late 2027.

  • Construction is set to begin this summer.
  • The plant is expected to be fully operational by late 2027.

The players

International Paper

An American pulp and paper company that has announced plans to build a $225 million facility in Rankin County, Mississippi.

Butch Lee

The mayor of Brandon, Mississippi, who said the city has been preparing for years to ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place for the new International Paper facility.

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What they’re saying

“On behalf of the city of Brandon, we've been working for a decade to get all of our infrastructure in place, sewer and water, and everything that a company like this might need.”

— Butch Lee, Mayor of Brandon

“Really, it's a $225 million opportunity and improvement in Brandon and Rankin County, and everyone's happy about it.”

— Butch Lee, Mayor of Brandon

What’s next

Construction on the new International Paper facility in Rankin County is set to begin this summer, with the plant expected to be fully operational by late 2027.

The takeaway

This investment by International Paper not only modernizes production in the region but also solidifies Rankin County's position as a growing hub for industrial development, signaling continued economic growth and new opportunities for Mississippians.