BALDWYN, MS -- Southern Motion said it will invest $3 million to convert a former Forefront Golf distribution center to produce a new line of upholstered recliners.

The Ponotoc, MS-based furniture company said the 192,500-square-foot building will create 150 new jobs over the next three years. Southern Motion employs 915 workers in Ponotoc, including at a new 180,000-square-foot plant that represents a $7 million investment.

Southern Motion President Roger Bland said. “We are truly proud to be able to continue to add American workers to our payroll while others are moving jobs to China.”

“I appreciate Southern Motion’s commitment to Mississippi by expanding operations into Baldwyn,” Gov. Haley Barbour said. “The investment and jobs created by Southern Motion will greatly benefit the area.”

Southern Motiion worked closely with the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA), which provided assistance for the project through the Momentum Mississippi Incentives program for modifications to the building in which Southern Motion will be located. In addition, the Appalachian Regional Commission and Prentiss County provided assistance for infrastructure improvements at the site. The City of Baldwyn donated land to be used for truck access.

Southern Motion was founded in 1996. Its product line includes recliners, sofas and loveseats, sectionals and home theater furniture.