New Pratt Industries Facility Brings Manufacturing and Agricultural Benefits to Georgia
Earlier this month, Pratt Industries officially opened a new box manufacturing facility in Georgia, marking a significant investment in American manufacturing and rural economic development. The facility is expected to have a far-reaching impact on agriculture, forestry, and job creation across the state and the Southeast.
We caught up with Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tyler Harper to hear his thoughts on what this new facility means for Georgia’s economy and agricultural sector.
“First off, it’s always great when you’re opening new manufacturing on American soil, especially on Georgia soil.
You know, I think that’s part of our work here in the state and nationwide under President Trump and under Governor Kemp and the state leadership to reinvest in America and bring American manufacturing jobs back home. And I think this is a perfect example of that.”
Commissioner Harper emphasized that what makes the Pratt Industries facility especially unique is its connection to Georgia-grown resources and products.
“But what’s great about this facility and Pratt Industries is they’re creating products from Georgia pine products and we’re utilizing those created products from forest products to put in Georgia growing products like produce and fruits and vegetables that are shipped all over the world.”
This integrated supply chain highlights the strength of Georgia’s agricultural and forestry industries working together to support global markets.
“And, you know, I think that is a true testament story of the success of the rural economy and rural America and reinvestment in rural jobs and rural communities because the success of this facility ensures that a lot of our agricultural community continues to be successful as well.”
The Georgia Agribusiness Council also sees the new facility as a major win for producers, particularly fruit and vegetable growers who rely on packaging solutions close to home. Will Bentley with the Georgia Agribusiness Council shared how the facility benefits farmers throughout the Southeast.
“It’s really a unique opportunity for somebody that uses recycled cardboard to make the boxes that go into packaging the fruits and vegetables that all of our families in the state and around the country really get their produce from.”
Bentley added that the facility helps create a more efficient and connected agricultural system.
“And also just what it means to our fruit and vegetable producers, especially crop producers here in the state. Having this full circle from the boxes all the way to the packing and everything that goes in on their farm side.”
By combining recycled materials, local forestry products, and agricultural packaging, the Pratt Industries facility represents a full-circle investment in Georgia’s rural economy—supporting jobs, growers, and communities well beyond the plant’s walls.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.