ATLANTA – Recent developments have spotlighted the positive momentum surrounding Irving Tissue, as this Canadian household paper production company outlines plans for substantial growth at its Macon, Georgia facility. Announced on November 21, 2024, during the company's fifth anniversary celebration, the expansion project is set to total approximately $600 million and create at least 100 new jobs.
Governor Brian Kemp led the announcement, emphasizing Irving Tissue's significant contribution to economic development within the region. “Since choosing Macon in 2017, Irving Tissue has invested around $1.5 billion, creating 400 well-paying jobs,” he highlighted. The governor expressed gratitude for the company's continued investment, calling them "a valued employer for the entire region of Georgia."
The Macon plant, situated at 1897 Allen Road in the Sofkee Industrial Park, is currently staffed by over 400 employees. It specializes in producing high-quality household paper products, including soft bath tissue and absorbent paper towels. The upcoming phase of expansion will introduce not just additional jobs but also significant upgrades to machinery and infrastructure. This expansion includes the installation of a third ThruAir Dry paper-making machine, additional converting lines, and the construction of a fully automated warehouse.
The addition of the new machinery will allow for an increase of 75,000 tonnes per year, bolstering the total annual capacity at the facility to 225,000 tonnes, which translates to approximately 45 million cases of finished products.
“It’s another great day for our employees, customers, and the State of Georgia,” remarked Robert K. Irving, President of Irving Tissue. He expressed appreciation for the State of Georgia’s commitment to economic prosperity, jobs, and growth, noting the region's skilled workforce as fundamental to their growth potential. "We are proud to continue investing here and truly appreciate the community support we receive,” Irving added.
Macon-Bibb County Mayor Lester Miller also weighed in on the significance of this expansion. “Irving has been more than just a business; they’ve been a true member of our team,” he said, praising the firm for its commitment to both the community and its economic development. Miller emphasized how this growth offers more success stories for Macon.
The partnership between Irving Tissue and local government officials has been reinforced through various phases of expansion. The expansion’s impactful economic footprint can be seen through past investment phases, which involved extensive construction efforts. For reference, the first phase comprised 1.5 million person-hours of work involving numerous contractors, and upcoming expansion phases are expected to similarly engage many local businesses.
According to Candice Scott, the Regional Project Manager who represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development, this expansion is not only indicative of Irving's continuous commitment to Macon-Bibb County but also highlights Georgia’s business-friendly environment. “Over the last five years, Irving Tissue has truly integrated itself within our community,” she noted.
Irving Tissue’s commitment to producing quality products cannot be overstated. The facility's output primarily supports several prominent North American retailers, creating formidable market presence through brands like Royale, Majesta, and Scotties.
The broader impacts of this project will extend beyond job creation. By increasing their production capacity, Irving Tissue aims to bridge supply chains more effectively to meet the demands of retailers across the Eastern Seaboard. This strategic growth plays well within the fabric of Georgia’s economy, which has regularly been recognized as one of the best business climates in the United States.
The expansion initiative adds to Irving Tissue's already impressive history within Macon. The company has shown dedication not just to bottom-line growth but to fulfilling community commitments and advancing local interests. This growth not only strengthens the company's commercial standing but also amplifies job opportunities for the citizens of Macon, fostering economic resilience and sustainability.
With construction expected to begin shortly, Irving Tissue is also actively hiring for various positions. Interested candidates can find open roles online at the company’s career portal, signaling the onset of job postings as operations start gearing up for this ambitious project.
