Building the Future of Sharpie and American Manufacturing in Maryville
Every day in Maryville, Tennessee, nearly two million Sharpie® markers roll off the production line, each molded, assembled, filled, and printed on site. The factory produces more than 500 million Sharpie Fine markers a year, enough to circle the Earth almost twice if laid end to end.
Inside the facility, you’ll find 50 injection molding machines, 32 packaging lines, and over 100 assembly and printing lines. Robots deliver resin, ink, and components to production cells where skilled technicians oversee automation systems.
You’ll also find employees, some of whom have worked at the facility for over 20 years, taking great care and skill in developing the products. They take immense pride in manufacturing and creating products for iconic brands like Sharpie, Paper Mate®, Expo® and Elmer’s®.
A Modern Manufacturing Model
The Maryville facility is proof of how Newell Brands has transformed its global supply chain. As part of the company’s multi-year strategy, Newell has unified 23 separate supply chains into one integrated, scaled system. Today, the company’s U.S. manufacturing footprint is a key advantage. Maryville is the model example with state-of-the-art automation, a culture of continuous improvement and a focus on upskilling people.
Innovation Through Automation
Investments in robotics, automation and AI have redefined productivity on the factory floor. The Maryville team continuously identifies new opportunities to optimize processes, deploying technology that enhances accuracy, improves speeds, advances quality and reduces manual tasks.
Each improvement contributes to a stronger operational model: higher throughput, better quality control, and faster customer response times. These efficiencies have helped Newell deliver strong productivity results while maintaining the quality and performance consumers expect from trusted brands.
Newell’s approach to automation is as much about people as it is about machines. Many employees who once packed boxes or performed repetitive tasks have been retrained to take on new, higher-skilled roles in automation engineering, robotics maintenance and process optimization.
Developing People, Advancing Potential
Newell’s commitment to developing talent is a defining part of its manufacturing strategy. Through programs like the Catalyst Learning Series and the Technical Training Program, Maryville employees are given opportunities to learn, lead, and grow, building both leadership and technical skills to advance their careers.
The Catalyst Learning Series is designed specifically for frontline supervisors and hourly leaders, providing the foundational tools needed to guide teams and drive success. Meanwhile, the Technical Training Program offers hands-on instruction in mechanical, electrical, and robotics systems, equipping team members with the expertise required to operate and maintain complex automated equipment.
These programs ensure Newell’s workforce remains at the forefront of innovation for manufacturing.
A Culture of Continuous Improvement
Another factor driving Maryville’s success is PEAK, Newell’s continuous improvement operating system. Short for Planning, Engagement, Achievement, and Knowledge, PEAK empowers employees to identify inefficiencies, solve problems and deliver results. Since its launch, the program has been rolled out to dozens of manufacturing and distribution sites, creating a shared language of operational excellence across Newell’s global network.
In Maryville, that mindset is visible every day. Teams gather to track performance metrics, celebrate wins and brainstorm better ways to work. It’s a culture that recognizes curiosity, accountability and pride in craftsmanship.
Made in Maryville, Built for the Future
As Newell Brands continues strengthening its global supply chain, Maryville stands as a model for the next chapter of American manufacturing, which is defined by innovation, advanced technology and a skilled workforce.