MEMPHIS, Tenn. (News release) -- International Paper, a global leader in sustainable packaging, on June 3 announced the strategic exploration of a new sustainable packaging facility in Salt Lake City, Utah. The exploration of a prospective new facility is part of International Paper's strategic growth plans to expand manufacturing capabilities in the United States. The company is eyeing Utah to increase its footprint in the region and better serve customers by meeting the growing demand for high-quality, sustainable packaging.

This announcement comes shortly after the company celebrated the groundbreaking of a new state-of-the-art sustainable packaging facility in Waterloo, Iowa.

"This exploration is part of Packaging Solutions North America's strategic growth initiative to enhance our regional manufacturing footprint in the U.S. Salt Lake City would be a new market for IP and an opportunity to better serve existing customers in the region and grow strategically with new customers," said John Berry, Group Vice President and General Manager, Packaging Group West.

If pursued, this proposed new facility will feature cutting-edge technology and equipment to help enable International Paper's ability to deliver innovative and sustainable packaging solutions to a growing customer base in the western U.S.

Specific information, including capital investment, facility footprint and potential employment opportunities will be shared at the appropriate time as part of the ongoing evaluation process.