The state of Georgia and local Macon-Bibb County leaders announced that First Quality Packaging Solutions, LLC has selected Macon as the location for its flagship manufacturing facility. FQPS will design, develop and manufacture innovative plastic packaging for the Retail Food, Food Service and Healthcare market segments. The company plans to create 115 jobs and to invest more than $68 million in Macon over the next five years, with further possible expansion opportunities.  FQPS is an affiliate of First Quality Baby Products, LLC, which operates a baby diaper manufacturing plant in Macon. 

"Advanced manufacturing remains one of Georgia's strongest sectors," said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner, Chris Carr. "By taking advantage of Quick Start, the nation's No. 1 workforce training program, as well as having direct access to skilled, ready-to-work individuals and a thriving business network, it's clear that Georgia is the right spot for FQPS' newest operations. I am confident they will find success in Macon."

FQPS business leader Donald Deubel stated, "First Quality is proud to announce the recent formation and launch of First Quality Packaging Solutions.  Organized in 2014, FQPS recently selected Macon, Georgia as the home for our flagship manufacturing operation.  FQPS will be modernizing an existing First Quality site on Industrial Highway, with construction scheduled to begin this spring.  When complete by early next year, the FQPS Macon facility will utilize industry leading manufacturing advancements and state-of-the-art technologies to produce plastic packaging for sale to external customers throughout North America. FQPS looks forward to furthering First Quality's commitment to being a cutting-edge technology-driven organization responsive to rapidly changing customer and market needs."   

"The interest in Macon-Bibb as a location for new or expanding industries continues to grow, and I want to welcome First Quality to our community," says Macon-Bibb County Mayor Robert A.B. Reichert. "The selection of Macon-Bibb, I know, is due to the work of our economic development team and the quality of life we can offer here." 

Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority Chairman, Cliffard Whitby stated, "The Industrial Authority applauds First Quality Packaging Solutions' decision to locate its new manufacturing facility in Macon-Bibb County.  Since the company's 2010 investment in our community they have not only met but exceeded their commitments." Whitby added, " We are proud that First Quality was so pleased with the Authority's and Macon-Bibb County's ability to deliver on our promises for its first project that our community and workforce was chosen again for its newest industrial operation.  The Authority looks forward to supporting First Quality's endeavors and all our existing companies to grow and expand in Macon-Bibb County."

Leonard Bevill, Chairman of the Macon Economic Development Commission added, "On behalf of the MEDC and its Board, along with all of the Economic Development Partners in Macon-Bibb County, I would like to thank First Quality Packaging Solutions, LLC for their decision to locate in our community.  It is an exciting time as we celebrate a new community partner that will bring a significant financial investment as well as new jobs to our region that will enhance Macon-Bibb as an ideal place to live, work, and play.  I congratulate all of our Economic Development Partners who made this deal happen and look forward to many more great announcements in the near future."

Candice Scott, project manager of existing industry and regional recruitment at GDEcD, supported the company on behalf of the state of Georgia, along with Jim Lovett, Regional Project Manager with Georgia Power Company.