RUSTBURG, VA: The Campbell County Board of Supervisors and Altavista Economic Development Authority (EDA) announce an incentive package to support a major modernization project at Graham Packaging. The incentive of $520,000 will be provided to the company over a four-year period in the form of tax rebates. Graham Packaging, a global manufacturer of sustainable, recyclable packaging, will be investing $20 million in their Altavista facility which is the largest investment made since opening. Graham Packaging’s plant in the Town of Altavista has been in operation for over 15 years. At their meeting on September 3, 2024, the Campbell County Board of Supervisors voted to authorize an economic stimulus grant from the County up to $320,000 based on the company’s capital investment and the Altavista EDA has committed to an additional $200,000 in tax rebates.
A Significant Economic Driver
“Graham's position as an economic driver in the Altavista area is well documented,” said Altavista District Supervisor Tom Lawton when asked about the importance of the offer. “Their first investment in our community started over 16 years ago and now they are continuing to further solidify their commitment by investing $20 million to modernize an entire production line.”
Graham Packaging has been a prominent industrial presence in Altavista since their packaging fabrication plant opened in 2008. This newest investment represents the 5th major investment in their Altavista plant.
“The Altavista Economic Development Authority is pleased to be a part of this incentive package as the plant upgrades its current manufacturing capabilities to the latest technology,” said Bill Gillespie, Chairman of the Altavista EDA. “I can remember when Graham Packaging came to Altavista well over 10 years ago and they have been growing ever since. We look forward to many more."
The Synergy of Co-Location
The Graham Packaging corporate website showcases its competitive strategy of “co-location manufacturing,” which means strategically positioning their packaging facilities close to their customer’s filling facilities.
Graham Packaging released the following statement in response to the approval of the incentives:
We are excited to invest in our Altavista plant in Campbell County, a move that underscores our commitment to both our customers and the communities in which we operate. This investment will support a significant, long-term customer and is made possible by the valuable incentives provided by Campbell County and the Town of Altavista. By enhancing our capabilities, we not only reinforce our dedication to customer satisfaction but also strengthen our role as one of the county's largest employers. We greatly value our partnership with Campbell County and believe that collaborative efforts like these are essential for driving mutual success and community growth.
The Altavista plant provides packaging for several well-known brands seen on grocery store shelves nationwide, but produced here in Virginia, including Abbott’s Pediasure, Shamrock Farms milk bottles, as well as Danone North America’s International Delight creamers and STōK Iced Coffee drinks.
“I have been to their facilities on numerous occasions to deliver incentive checks for previous expansion projects,” shared Gillespie. “The Altavista facility has a great staff and Graham Packaging, as a company, is a true asset to the Altavista community.”
“This is great for our town and for Campbell County,” added Lawton. “The Board of Supervisors recognizes this commitment and has unanimously approved these incentives.”
About Campbell County
Campbell County is located in Central Virginia, strategically positioned between the Cities of Lynchburg and Danville. Encompassing 511 square miles including the Towns of Altavista and Brookneal, Campbell County residents enjoy a high quality of life with neighborhood options ranging from scenic agricultural areas to suburban corridors and town living. Lower cost of living, a comfortable climate, and business-friendly policies make Campbell County an exceptional place to work, play, and live.
About Graham Packaging
Graham Packaging is a global leader in the development and design of creative, sustainable packaging solutions for a variety of industry-leading consumer brands. The company employs some of the best and brightest package designers, who bring inspired, technology-driven solutions to market. Headquartered in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, with a flagship manufacturing facility in nearby York, Pennsylvania, Graham Packaging produces more than 16 billion containers annually across nearly 70 plants in North America, Europe and South America. The company was founded in 1970 and acquired in 2011 by Reynolds Group Holdings — a leading global manufacturer and supplier of consumer food and beverage packaging and storage products. For additional information on Graham Packaging, please visit grahampackaging.com.
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Additional photos available upon request for web or print. Email mheden@co.campbell.va.us.