Georgia-Pacific invests $150 million to modernize Oregon paper mill

Georgia-Pacific has announced an investment of more than $150 million to upgrade a paper machine at its Wauna, Oregon mill, built in 1965. This project seeks to convert the facility into a world-class mill, specializing in the production of paper for strategic brands such as Angel Soft® and private label tissue paper. The investment is intended to improve the competitiveness of the mill and the overall business in the marketplace.

Engineering and construction work has begun, with start-up of the new machine expected to take place in 2026. During peak construction, around 500 construction workers and related contractors are expected to be present at the factory site.

 

Vivek Joshi, president of Georgia-Pacific’s tissue, towel and napkin retail business, said, “We are excited to invest in our market-leading Angel Soft® bath tissue and the strategic private label brands we support,” “This investment will allow us to grow these brands and continue to serve our loyal consumers with the great quality they expect.”

For his part, Brian Solheim, vice president of manufacturing at the Wauna factory, highlighted “This is a great investment in our Wauna team and our community, which makes it an exciting time to be working at the Wauna factory. “I am proud of the work our team members do every day to make this a safe, competitive and strategic location for our Consumer Products business. I’m grateful for all the support and collaboration we get from the community.”

The Wauna factory, which currently employs more than 700 people, produces bath tissue, paper towels and napkins for retail sale throughout the country. Although the investment is expected to improve efficiency and production capacity, no significant increase in employment is anticipated as a direct result of this investment.