Georgia-Pacific has announced an $83 million expansion at its Palatka, Florida mill, including the construction of a new 400,000-square-foot warehouse and trailer yard to enhance storage, shipping, and operational efficiency.
The project is expected to create 20 new jobs and strengthen the company's customer service and logistics capabilities.
The expansion will be completed in two phases. Phase 1 involves the development of a trailer yard accommodating 500 truck trailers, with a new dedicated entrance from County Road 216 to help ease traffic congestion. Following the completion of the trailer yard, Phase 2 will see the construction of the warehouse, which will integrate advanced automation technologies, including automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and an automated trailer entry and exit system. Vertical dock levelers will also be installed to boost safety and minimize foot traffic outside the facility.
Site work for the trailer yard is scheduled to begin in May 2025, while construction of the warehouse is expected to start in February 2026 and take about one year to complete.
“This project will enhance our operations and help us better serve our customers. It also demonstrates our commitment to innovation and excellence,” said Vin Webster, Vice President of Manufacturing at the Palatka mill. “This expansion and investment in Putnam County will positively impact the entire region.”
Mark Litten, Vice President of Economic Development at the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the broader significance: “This warehouse is more than just a building; it represents a substantial investment in our community. The creation of new jobs and improved infrastructure will attract further investments and unlock new opportunities for our region.”
The Palatka mill, Georgia-Pacific’s largest private employer in Putnam County with more than 1,000 employees, produces a range of consumer tissue brands including Angel Soft®, Quilted Northern®, Brawny®, and Sparkle®, as well as kraft paper used for recyclable mailers, grocery bags, and corrugated box liners. The latest investment builds on a decade of upgrades at the site, including new paper machines, converting lines, and other enhancements aimed at maintaining the mill’s competitiveness and sustainability.
Atlanta-based Georgia-Pacific, a subsidiary of Koch Industries, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of tissue, paper-based packaging, cellulose, and building products.
