Once operational, the Jackson plant will increase the supply of disposable tableware products from brands including the Dixie and Dixie Ultra lines of plates and bowls
The rendering of the future Dixie facility in Jackson, Tennessee. (Credit: PR Newswire/ Georgia-Pacific)
Manufacturing company Georgia-Pacific has announced an investment of more than $425m to construct an advanced Dixie manufacturing facility in Jackson, Tennessee.
Georgia-Pacific said the new facility is intended to increase the supply of disposable tableware items, which will allow busy customers to put the dishes away and concentrate on more essential tasks.
The firm said construction is projected to commence by the end of the year, and launch is planned for the summer of 2024.
Georgia-Pacific consumer business president Fernando Gonzalez said: “Although we have invested to expand existing sites, this is the first new Dixie plant the company has built since 1991.
“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.”
The factory will be situated 241 acres west of the city, close to Interstate 40 and State Highway 223 as well as providing access to neighbouring rail service to ensure an efficient and effective supply chain.
Once operational, the Jackson plant will employ approximately 220 people and manufacture the tableware products brands, including the Dixie and Dixie Ultra lines of plates and bowls.
The new 900,000ft² facility will provide a climate-controlled setting and feature a printer, related plate forming and conversion equipment, as well as other advanced production equipment.
Madison County mayor AJ Massey said: “This major investment in our community not only further strengthens our local economy but emphasizes our area’s qualified workforce and great location for companies to thrive.
“Through our K-12 schools, technical college and universities, we are continuing to focus on developing the skills to create a workforce capable of meeting the needs of our industries both now and in the future.”
Georgia-Pacific now has six operations in Tennessee and directly employs about 460 people.
The company recently unveiled plans to spend over $20m to upgrade its corrugated manufacturing in Lebanon, Tennessee.