International Paper has officially started building a new $260 million packaging box plant in Waterloo, Iowa. When finished, the factory will be the biggest box‐making facility in the US and replace the firm’s existing Waterloo facility.
Located in the heart of the Midwest, the advanced plant will specialize in the protein segment with custom, eco‐friendly packaging options. Equipped with the newest technology and designed to the most current safety specifications, the structure is designed to allow International Paper to meet expanding market demand without harming the environment.
“We are excited to begin this major investment in both our company and the Waterloo community,” said John Berry, Group Vice President at International Paper. “This project underscores our commitment to expanding in strategic markets, enhancing our capabilities, and delivering dependable, high-quality products to our customers. We’re grateful for the support—from local leaders to our partners—that made today’s groundbreaking possible.”
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Economic Impact of International Paper’s New Packaging Facility in Waterloo
The development will generate more than 200 permanent member positions, approximately 85 of them local hires. Approximately 130 site workers will be hired throughout the construction process, as well as 40 trade partners and 10 design firms each supported by five to ten auxiliary vendors. Nearly half the work involved in constructing—40 to 50%—will be done by Iowa-based contractors, translating into broader indirect benefits to Iowa hospitality and service industries.
Since 2019, the company has invested $171 million in capital projects across Iowa, the new plant is expected massively increase these investments.
Groundbreaking marked the start of assembling 2,000 tons of fabricated steel and pouring over 35,000 cubic yards of concrete for foundations, floors, walls, and the roof structure. The facility is slated to begin operations in the fourth quarter of 2026, ushering in a new era for packaging production in the U.S.
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International Paper’s New Box Plant in Waterloo: Project Factsheet
Project Overview
Investment: $260 million
Location: Waterloo, Iowa
Status: Construction officially commenced
Completion Date: Q4 2026
Significance: Will be the largest box-manufacturing site in the United States
Facility Details
Replaces: Existing International Paper Waterloo operation
Purpose: Production of customized, sustainable packaging solutions
Primary Market: Protein segment
Features: State-of-the-art technology and latest safety standards
Strategic Goal: Meeting growing market demand while minimizing environmental impact
Impact
Permanent Jobs: 200+ team-member positions (including ~85 local hires)
International Paper Waterloo Facility Construction Phase:
130 on-site workers
40 trade partners
10 design firms
Each supported by 5-10 additional suppliers
Local Economic Benefit: 40-50% of construction work by Iowa-based contractors
Additional Benefits: Indirect positive impact on regional hospitality and service industries
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