Plastipak Packaging announces $53.8 million expansion in Rapides Parish

Plastipak Packaging Inc. has announced a $53.8 million expansion of its Pineville manufacturing facility in Rapides Parish, a project that will add 200,000 square feet of warehouse space, up to five new production lines, and streamline operations across the plant.

The expansion is expected to create 15 direct new jobs while retaining 340 current positions. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will generate an additional 25 indirect jobs, bringing the total potential new positions in the Central Region to 40.

“Plastipak’s investment reflects the kind of growth Louisiana’s 9×90 Plan is designed to deliver,” said LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. “By expanding production capacity and adding warehouse space, the company is strengthening Central Louisiana’s manufacturing base and creating new opportunities for local workers. Modernizing core industries like manufacturing is how we build stronger, more competitive regions across Louisiana.”

The warehouse expansion will provide additional space for raw materials and finished products. New production lines will include conveyor and compression systems, molds, and labeling and printing systems. Upgrades to existing lines will increase the use of recycled plastic, enhancing both efficiency and sustainability.

“Since Plastipak began construction of its Pineville plant in 2003, our team has been extremely impressed with and appreciative of the collaboration and support from local and state officials and local organizations,” said Plastipak Holdings President and CEO Ed Morgan. “The long-term support and business-friendly environment in Louisiana has allowed Plastipak to expand the facility several times over the past 20-plus years, and allows us to announce the current investment. We look forward to increasing our manufacturing and recycling capabilities in Pineville and supporting our customers in Louisiana.”

The announcement coincides with the Central Region leg of LED’s Driving Louisiana Opportunity tour, which highlights employers like Plastipak that have strengthened communities and fueled economic growth across the state for decades.

Plastipak last expanded its Pineville facility in 2017 with a $15 million investment. The current expansion is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2026.

“We are pleased that Plastipak continues to expand its operations right here in Rapides Parish,” said Rapides Parish Police Jury President Craig Smith. “This announcement means more opportunity for our people, and we are grateful for Plastipak’s confidence in our parish and our workforce.”

To secure the project, Louisiana offered Plastipak a competitive incentives package, including LED FastStart workforce development solutions and participation in the state’s Retention and Modernization Program, as well as the Industrial Tax Exemption and Quality Jobs programs.

“Plastipak’s decision to reinvest in its Rapides Parish facility is a strong vote of confidence in our region’s workforce and business climate,” said Louisiana Central President & CEO Chris Masingill. “Their continued growth here reinforces the message that Central Louisiana is a competitive and welcoming home for world-class manufacturers. We are proud to support Plastipak’s success and look forward to the opportunities this additional investment will bring to our region.”