Packaging company to invest $80 million, add 140 jobs in Searcy

Bryce Corporation, a manufacturer of flexible packaging, announced Wednesday (April 13) it will invest $80 million to expand its operations in Searcy. The expansion is expected to add 142 new jobs.

As part of this expansion, Bryce Corporation will construct a new manufacturing facility and a distribution center in Searcy. The company will also invest in advanced technology and state-of-the-art process equipment to serve its consumer product customers.

“It’s always a great day in Arkansas when our existing businesses announce expansions, and this is no exception,” Gov. Asa Hutchinson said. “For decades, Bryce Corporation has been a strong community partner. Their investment in Searcy speaks volumes about their confidence in the city’s workforce and quality of life, and I wish the company well as they enter this next phase of growth.”

Bryce Corporation opened its first manufacturing facility in Searcy in 1976 with 29 employees. The company employed 465 workers as of Dec. 2021.

“These are transformational and generational commitments that we are excited to make in Searcy as we transition into the fourth and look forward to the fifth generation of family leadership,” said Bryce Corporation President Sean Bowie, a fourth generation Bryce family member.

“We would like to thank the city of Searcy and White County leadership teams, the Chamber of Commerce and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission for their partnership and support throughout this process. We also appreciate the residents of White County, many of whom are current and retired team members of Bryce Corporation,” said CEO Tom Bryce.

“Arkansas’ economy continues to grow thanks to the commitment of both our businesses and our communities,” said Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston. “I’m pleased that Bryce Corporation has found the tools they need to grow and succeed in Searcy. Their decision to expand their facility will diversify and strengthen the area’s economy and provide good jobs to hardworking citizens. I look forward to continuing our partnership in the future.”