Cluster Effect Creates Investment Boom
COLUMBUS — Packaging solutions provider DRC Industries is establishing operations in Lowndes County, a $4 million corporate investment that will create 50 jobs, the Mississippi Development Authority announced August 4.
The company, which makes industrial packaging products including corner board, paper tubes and cores, and chipboard sheeting, will locate at an existing facility in Columbus to expand production and serve customers across the Southeast. In choosing the site, DRC cited access to inbound raw materials through port, truck and rail networks — and the customers it already has in the area.
“Columbus, Mississippi, is home to several highly valued DRC customers, including Steel Dynamics, Aluminum Dynamics, New Process Steel and others,” said DRC Industries co-owner and director of sales Daniel R. Abrell. He said the WIN Job Center, the Mississippi Department of Employment Security and East Mississippi Community College are assisting the company with hiring, and that the Columbus plant — alongside DRC facilities in Carrollton, Kentucky, and St. Petersburg, Florida — positions the company to serve growing Southern markets.
The announcement follows Aluminum Dynamics’ $200 million expansion of its recycled aluminum operations in Lowndes County, announced in July — making DRC the latest supplier to locate alongside the Golden Triangle’s growing steel and aluminum cluster.
“Successful economic development happens when a company’s objectives align with a state’s strengths,” said MDA Executive Director Bill Cork. “DRC Industries was looking for efficient supply chains, dependable infrastructure and a move-in-ready location, and Lowndes County checked every box.”
Gov. Tate Reeves said the investment “will create 50 new jobs in Lowndes County and new opportunities for Mississippi families,” adding that it “adds to our state’s historic momentum.” Golden Triangle Development LINK CEO Meryl Fisackerly said the region “offers the transportation infrastructure, industrial assets and workforce that manufacturers need to succeed.”
MDA is assisting the project through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive (MFLEX) program.