Kimberly-Clark Corp. pouring $120 million into Jenks mill expansion

Kimberly-Clark is making at least a $120 million investment that will add more than 50 full-time jobs to its facility in Jenks.

The multi-phased project, which will expand the Jenks mill by 270,000 square feet and install new assets for manufacturing Kleenex folded tissue products and Scott bath tissue, is expected to be completed in 2020.

“We are excited to increase Jenks’ manufacturing capacity and set up our operations to better support Kimberly-Clark’s objectives to grow and remain a top competitor in the North American market,” Kirk Linna, Jenks plant manager, said in a statement. “We are also thankful for the support of the state of Oklahoma and Jenks community along the way.”

The mill currently manufactures some of the company’s Cottonelle and Scott bath tissue products, as well as Scott and Viva towels. In addition, the facility also includes a regional distribution center.

Hiring for new jobs is expected to begin in August, and openings will be posted at careersatkc.com.

“It is businesses like Kimberly-Clark that will help us continue to move our state forward,” Gov. Kevin Stitt said in a statement. “One of my administration’s priorities is to encourage businesses to invest in our state and ensure we are focused on how we can best grow Oklahoma together. I look forward to seeing the jobs created and positive impact that this expansion will have in the Jenks area and our state as a whole.”

Sean Kouplen is state secretary of commerce and workforce development.

“Kimberly-Clark’s Jenks facility is a prime example of the success manufacturers are capable of achieving in Oklahoma,” he said in a statement. “We are proud to see this facility continue to expand its production facility and increase job opportunities for Oklahomans.”

Kimberly-Clark opened the Jenks facility in 1990. Its employees support the Jenks and metro Tulsa area as active community partners with charitable organization opportunities, which included more than $236,000 in donations to the United Way in 2018.

“Kimberly-Clark is a valued member of the Jenks community,” Jenks Mayor Josh Wedman said in a statement. “Their investment, both in the facility and in their personnel, has helped to make Jenks the community it is today. We couldn’t be more excited about this expansion as it speaks to the strength of our city and of Kimberly-Clark.”