ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. — A Canada-based packaging company announced a $114.2 million investment Thursday that could bring 150 jobs to Hardin County.
Kruger Packaging announced plans to build a 400,000-square-foot manufacturing facility at T.J. Patterson Industrial Park in Elizabethtown, representing the company's first corrugated box plant in the U.S.
"This is a significant project for Elizabethtown and the commonwealth, and furthers the mission of the Kentucky agritech initiative to build a better future with higher paying jobs for Kentuckians," Gov. Andy Beshear said. "Kruger Packaging is creating nearly 150 quality job opportunities for our residents, and I want to thank the company for this commitment to our state."
The company produces 100% recycled containerboard products, corrugated packaging, tissue products, publication and specialty papers, renewable energy, cellulosic biomaterials and wines and spirits.
"Kentucky’s pro-business climate was instrumental in our decision to invest in Hardin County," said Michael Lafave, senior vice president and chief operating officer of Kruger Packaging.
Producing more jobs tied to farm technology and advanced manufacturing was part of Beshear's "kitchen table agenda" while running for governor in 2019.
Hardin County Judge Executive Harry Berry said the announcement will bring jobs during a critical time in the county and state's COVID-19 pandemic recovery.
The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority approved a 10-year incentive agreement with the company based on target of creating 147 full-time jobs for Kentucky residents across 10 years, paying an average hourly wage of $32.50 including benefits.
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