According to the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA), the expansion represents a company investment of $7 million and will create a minimum of 200 new jobs over the next two years, with the potential to create a total of 400 new jobs over the next five years. Southern Motion currently employs 701 workers with facilities covering 400,000 square feet.
Southern Motion's announcement that it plans to expand its domestic manufacturing capabilities comes at the same time that Barcalounger, one of its competitors, has declared bankruptcy.
âWe are excited about our new expansion, which is a tribute to the dedication and hard work of the entire Southern Motion family,â said Roger Bland, Southern Motion president. âWe have been very fortunate to grow our business in Mississippi, and our latest expansion will allow us to continue our commitment to manufacturing quality, American-made motion furniture.â
The MDA worked closely with Southern Motion and local officials to help facilitate the expansion. The agency provided assistance to the county through the Development Infrastructure Program and the Rural Impact Fund Program to help with public infrastructure improvements.
In early 2010, Southern Motion officials announced an expansion which added 70 new jobs and new manufacturing lines at the Pontotoc facility. MDA certified the company for the 70 jobs through the Existing Manufacturers Job Rebate Program. In early 2009, the company underwent an expansion which added 65 new jobs, new lines and new equipment. For that expansion, MDA provided workforce training assistance and guidance regarding state tax incentives available to the company.
Read the Mississippi Development Authority's press release.
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