After Years-Long Transformation, Brewton Containerboard Mill Is the Industry Standard

A story of groundbreaking innovation led by the people who refused to let it fail

After undergoing years of multi-million-dollar modernization projects, Georgia-Pacific’s Brewton Containerboard Mill has officially completed its latest significant upgrade. This marks a key milestone in its ongoing transformation.

The latest upgrade is the culmination of years of strategic investment after Georgia-Pacific acquired the pulp and paper mill in 2007 for $355 million.

It was struggling with outdated, inefficient equipment, including recovery boilers that had been in service since the 1950s and 60s. The mill was in need of drastic changes to operate successfully in the long-term.

“Years ago, it was clear that the mill was facing significant challenges—the writing was on the wall,” said Rhett Williams, Engineering Project Manager at Brewton.

Since 2007, nearly $1 billion has been invested in new technology and equipment, turning it into one of the most advanced paper facilities in the country.

Fast forward to 2025 – what once seemed like an operation struggling to survive is now an example of what innovation should look like.

The Brewton mill is now home to cutting-edge systems, including new lime kilns, green and white liquor clarifiers, and stabilization tanks. But most importantly, it has become a much safer workplace.

But that’s only part of the story.

Beyond the capital investments and updated infrastructure, it’s the heart and hard work of the over four hundred employees that have made the difference. This is evident in the way they’ve tackled numerous projects, embraced new technologies, and fostered a culture of challenge, continually questioning and brainstorming to find a better way of doing things.

“The changes we’ve seen over the past decade are about much more than just keeping pace with industry trends,” said Rhett. “It’s about the pride our employees take in their work, the culture of challenge they’ve embraced, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from knowing we’re part of something bigger than ourselves.”

The upgrades over the years have improved energy performance and significantly reduced the mill’s environmental footprint, reflecting our commitment to sustainability and stewardship.

For the past four years, the mill has been recognized with the ENERGY STAR® Certification and was the first integrated paper mill in the U.S. to earn that distinction.

“Sustainability is more than just a buzzword at Brewton,” said Travis Stacey, Pulp & Woodyard Manufacturing Leader. “It’s about responsible resource management and creating a positive impact on our employees, our community, and the environment. And that’s very important to us here.”

That commitment is driven by employees who don’t just meet expectations – they exceed them.  

Brewton is a fully integrated pulp and paper mill, meaning employees are responsible for the entire end-to-end production, from the intake of logs to the final product that goes into things consumers use every day. The mill produces large rolls of paperboard used to make corrugated boxes and paper plates, and once those rolls are complete, they’re shipped to other GP facilities for further use.

Today, the mill is a testament to continuous improvement—a place where employees are not only growing but leading the effort, guided by the principles of mutual benefit.

“What I’ve witnessed over the years with our employees, our culture, our growth is nothing short of inspiring,” said Julie VanDeWater, Public Affairs Manager, Brewton.  “I love this team, and I take great pride in what they’ve accomplished. I hope they look back on their work and feel proud as well, because they should be.”

This latest milestone isn’t just a sign of the mill’s remarkable growth; it’s proof of the team’s resolve to making things better.

And while the mill and employees have already achieved so much, the story is far from over.

In fact, it’s only just beginning.

Source: Georgia-Pacific, LLC