International Paper is nearing completion on the 250,000 square foot expansion at its Kenton manufacturing facility.
As final construction continues and new equipment begins installation, IP credits community organizations for being advocates behind growth for the company and 125 jobs that will be created in the Kenton community. Representatives from the Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance (HCCBA) and JobsOhio recently visited the facility for an update and tour of the project progress.
"This is an exciting time for our Foodservice business and for Kenton. We have reached a critical milestone in this process - the walls are up and we are gearing up for our full move-in," said Tracy Pearson, vice president and general manager, Foodservice.
"We know our strong history in Kenton would not be possible without the support of Hardin County, city of Kenton and state leadership along with organizations such as HCCBA, the Regional Growth Partnership, and JobsOhio. We truly appreciate the contribution that each of these organizations have provided to making this vision a reality."
International Paper announced the expansion of its Kenton facility, which manufactures fiber-based hot and cold cups, food buckets, containers, plates and lids for many popular quick-service restaurant brands, in early 2014.
The expansion reflects industry trends showing solid growth fueled by consumer demand for convenient, on-the-go food and beverage containers as part of their daily routines. Kenton, Ohio was selected based on access to a skilled workforce, its multi-mode transportation capabilities and easy distribution access to the Midwest, East Coast and Southern markets.
"As we envision the future of Kenton and the surrounding areas, we know that business, education and workforce work hand in hand," shared Jon Cross, president & CEO, HCCBA. "Our partnership with International Paper is a prime example of the collaboration it takes to drive and sustain growth in our community."
"International Paper is a premier supplier in its industry, and their focus on process efficiency and product innovation are key drivers of the company's growth and expansion," said Glenn Richardson, managing director, JobsOhio. "Along with the Regional Growth Partnership, we are excited this state-of-the-art expansion is in Kenton and will bring 125 more manufacturing jobs to the area."
The facility has passed initial inspections and has begun partial occupancy of the new building. Completion of the expansion is anticipated in late summer 2015. More information about starting operations and grand opening activities will be released in the coming months ahead.
About International Paper
International Paper is a global leader in packaging and paper with manufacturing operations in North America, Europe, Latin America, Russia, Asia and North Africa.
Its businesses include industrial and consumer packaging along with uncoated papers and pulp. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., the company employs approximately 58,000 people and is strategically located in more than 24 countries serving customers worldwide. International Paper net sales for 2014 were $24 billion.
About IP Foodservice
Based in Memphis, Tenn., International Paper's Foodservice business is a leading global marketer and manufacturer of single-use packaging for the foodservice industry.
The company's paper cups, food containers, plates and accessories are found in leading chain restaurants around the world. The company has a solid record of bringing innovative products and brands to market including Hold&Go, Cold&Go and ecotainer, a compostable product line made from fully renewable resources along with products made from FDA-compliant, post-consumer fiber.
The foodservice business has operations in Kenton, Ohio, Shelbyville, Ill., and Visalia, Calif., Shanghai and Tianjin China, Winsford, UK and Bogota, Colombia.
