(Photo from Smurfit Westrock website)
Smurfit Westrock, a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions, is expanding its corrugated operations in Saltillo with a significant investment of nearly $19.3 million. The expansion reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its U.S. manufacturing presence while supporting economic growth in Mississippi.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Smurfit Westrock produces a wide range of packaging materials designed to meet the needs of industries across the globe. The Saltillo facility currently manufactures corrugated products including standard cases, boxes and trays. With this project, the company is purchasing advanced equipment that will convert flat container board into corrugated boxes. The upgrades are expected to boost production capacity by 50 percent, enhance efficiency and enable the plant to manufacture larger-sized boxes.
State and local leaders have joined forces to support the project. The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive (MFLEX) program, while Lee County is also contributing resources to ensure the expansion’s success.
Governor Tate Reeves highlighted the importance of the project for both the local community and the state’s broader manufacturing landscape. “The decision by the Smurfit Westrock team to expand in Saltillo reinforces what so many already know — Mississippi is a manufacturing powerhouse,” Reeves said. “When products are made in Mississippi, consumers know they are getting top-quality goods made by a workforce that takes pride in craftsmanship. As long as companies like Smurfit Westrock continue to rely on Mississippi to get the job done right, we will continue showing the world what we can do.”
Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Bill Cork emphasized the broader economic impact, saying, “Smurfit Westrock’s investment in Lee County is proof that Mississippi is where manufacturers win. Projects like this strengthen our communities, grow our economy and show the world we’re a place where companies want to put down roots and thrive. We might be a small state, but we compete with the best — and we’re proving every day that Mississippi is one of the top places to do business.”
Company leaders noted that the project will enhance both operations and local partnerships. Laurent Sellier, President and CEO of Smurfit Westrock North America, said, “Smurfit Westrock is committed to optimizing the performance and value of its manufacturing operations. The expansion of the Saltillo facility demonstrates our ongoing collaboration with development partners in Mississippi, increases capacity and growth within our system, and supports the communities where we live and work.”
Local leaders echoed that sentiment, recognizing the value of the company’s long-term investment in the region. Saltillo Mayor Copey Grantham said, “The city of Saltillo is proud to support Smurfit Westrock as they expand their operations, strengthening our economy and creating opportunities for our workforce. We are grateful to our state and local partners whose commitment makes this significant investment possible.”
Lee County Board of Supervisors President Tommie Lee Ivy added, “Lee County has a long history of partnering with industries that choose to grow and thrive here, and Smurfit Westrock is an outstanding example. We are proud to work with the state of Mississippi and our local partners to make this expansion possible. We extend our gratitude to Smurfit Westrock for their continued confidence in Lee County and the opportunities this investment will create for our citizens.”
The expansion is expected to be complete by October 2026, marking another milestone in Mississippi’s growing role as a hub for advanced manufacturing.