Dixie Exec Moves to Jackson, TN

Director for new Dixie Jackson, TN, facility puts down local roots.

By Joe Morris on August 9, 2023

Georgia-Pacific chose Jackson for a new, $425 million manufacturing facility for its Dixie line of disposable tableware products. This is the first Dixie-oriented plant to come online in more than 30 years.

When Dixie Jackson opens in summer 2024, Plant Director Mike Cook will have a short commute, thanks to his decision to relocate to Jackson. Here’s an update from Cook on how the facility is progressing and why he wanted to call Jackson home.

How are things coming along with the project?

The Dixie Jackson site broke ground in late 2022 and really began to take shape in January 2023, with the pouring of concrete, development of the foundation and completion of our utility infrastructure. Progress is being made daily toward building a dynamic new manufacturing site that will provide important Dixie plates and bowls for our customers.

The Dixie Jackson team is already taking shape, with several members of our leadership team now on board, including a few from the local area. We began advertising for our first group of production employees this past summer. We anticipate hiring 40 team members sometime this fall to begin training. The site is still on track to open during summer 2024.

Why was Jackson the site of choice, as there were probably a few in consideration?

Jackson is a wonderful, vibrant community that offers many advantages and was a natural fit for the new Dixie plant. Most importantly, the community has a strong manufacturing footprint and a highly skilled workforce to support operations like the new Dixie plant. Resources like the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) and Jackson State Community College, as well as school system programs such as LOOP, help train students for manufacturing careers.

What is it about Jackson that made you want to settle here yourself? 

It didn’t take us long to recognize and appreciate the people, the culture, and the proud spirit that exists here. People who live here are genuinely proud of Jackson and all it has to offer. We have been residents for only about a year, but it feels like we have been here much longer as the transition process has gone smoother than we could have ever imagined. People have welcomed us with open arms, and the quality of life here provides big-city amenities and access while maintaining a small-town, family-oriented environment.