OKOLONA, MS - United Furniture Industries is looking at several regions across the U.S. for a $40 million manufacturing plant expansion that would result in a 25% increase in capacity, adding a 1 million-square-foot manufacturing and distribution facility, and employing 200 jobs.

The news was reported this week by Triad Business Journals, citing real estate consultant Robert Cottam.

In 2000, United Furniture Industries emerged from the merger and acquisitions of Comfort Furniture, Parkhill Furniture, and United Chair. In 2008, United Furniture Industries established an exclusive licensing agreement as the U. S. manufacturer of Simmons Upholstery, producing microfiber and bonded leather upholstery fabric furnishings.

Today, United Furniture Industries employs 3,000 and operates 4 million square feet of production space Okolona, Hatley and Amory, MI; Archdale, High Point, and Lexington, NC; and in Victorville, CA. In 2011 it expanded in Victorville, CA; and last year United Furniture added to capacity in Nettleton, MS.