Georgia-Pacific
A Long Legacy of Excellence
Georgia-Pacific, a global leader in consumer goods and packaging, is a name synonymous with quality and sustainability. The company’s deep roots at its Big Island, VA paper mill in Bedford County and in Campbell County tell a story of enduring success and commitment in the Lynchburg region.
It’s our pleasure to manufacture environmentally sustainable products right here on the edge of the Blue Ridge. For more than 130 years, we’ve been a leading employer in this region. We look forward to the next 130 years here in Lynchburg.
A Century of Success in the Lynchburg Region
Known for iconic brands like Quilted Northern® bath tissue, Brawny® paper towels, and Dixie® cups, Georgia-Pacific has become a staple in many households across the world. The company’s Big Island paper mill is Virginia’s oldest continuously operating business, sustaining jobs in manufacturing and standing as a testament to Georgia-Pacific’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
For over 125 years, this facility has been a cornerstone of the region’s economy, and has been regularly ranked as the No. 2 largest paper producing facility in the U.S. Located just 12 miles northwest of Lynchburg in the unincorporated village of Big Island, VA, the mill’s strategic position has played a crucial role in its longevity and success.
Environmental Leadership and Innovation
Georgia-Pacific’s Big Island facility exemplifies the company’s strong emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals. In 2024, the containerboard facility earned its first EPA Energy Star certification for energy efficiency, marking a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental footprint.
The mill has been certified for Wildlife Habitat Conservation by the Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC) since 2011. The facility has supported research efforts on the American chestnut tree and maintained pollinator gardens and food plots for white-tailed deer, further demonstrating Georgia-Pacific’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
A Strategic Location for Success
Georgia-Pacific’s decision to maintain operations in the Lynchburg region for over a century is no accident. The region’s strategic location allows the company to easily reach customers up and down the Eastern Seaboard, while Interstate 64 provides vital east-to-west access. This logistical advantage, combined with the proximity to three other Georgia-Pacific facilities throughout Virginia, ensures that the company can efficiently serve its vast customer base.
But it’s not just location that keeps Georgia-Pacific rooted in Lynchburg. The region offers a wealth of resources and support that have been crucial to the company’s growth. Organizations like the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance play a pivotal role in helping companies like Georgia-Pacific access state resources to strengthen their ESG goals.
Virginia’s discretionary incentives also help to grow the state’s agriculture and forestry industries — further enhancing the ability to innovate and lead in sustainable practices. Additionally, many colleges and universities in the region provide a steady stream of educated manufacturing talent to support sustainable operations.
The success of Georgia-Pacific in the Lynchburg region is a story of partnership, innovation, and commitment. For over a century, the company has thrived in this strategic location, benefiting from the region’s resources and support. As Georgia-Pacific continues to lead in sustainable manufacturing and environmental stewardship, the Lynchburg region remains an integral part of its journey, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for both the company and the community.