Ashley expanding furniture manufacturing in Lee County 07/17/2024
Creating over 500 jobs in Mississippi - represents corporate investment of nearly $80 million
(Jackson, MS) Ashley Furniture Industries, the largest manufacturer of home furnishings in the world, has plans to expand operations in two of its existing locations in Lee County. The project represents a corporate investment of approximately $80 million in facilities and equipment and will create at least 500 new jobs.
This project will expand Ashley’s foam and mattress production in Verona through the purchase and renovation of a neighboring facility and the construction of a new facility. Additionally, Ashley plans to expand operations in Saltillo, currently the country’s largest mattress plant, with a substantial investment in equipment and operations. This project aims to enhance the company’s operational efficiencies to better serve Ashley’s customers in over 155 countries worldwide.
The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX program, as well as assistance to upgrade fire safety systems. In addition, Lee County is assisting through a fee-in-lieu agreement.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
QUOTES
“Ashley Furniture is already one of Mississippi’s most well-known job creators. As the world’s largest manufacturer of home furnishings, Ashley’s historic commitment to Mississippi is a major boon for our entire state. Supporting existing businesses as they grow and provide new job opportunities for Mississippi workers is a vital component of our state’s economic development vision. This fantastic project only further highlights Mississippi’s global reputation as a destination for business and manufacturing.” – Gov. Tate Reeves
“When companies expand their operations in Mississippi, it is a remarkable endorsement for our pro-business environment and policies. In partnership with local communities, we strive daily to create quality jobs for Mississippi’s citizens. Ashley’s significant investment in Lee County and creation of hundreds of opportunities for the area’s workforce continue Mississippi’s momentum.” – MDA Executive Director Bill Cork
“We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our Verona and Saltillo operations in Mississippi. This strategic investment reinforces our commitment to growth and allows us to better serve our customers. By expanding our capabilities in Mississippi, we are creating more job opportunities and strengthening our presence in the region." – Todd Wanek, CEO and President, Ashley
“On behalf of the Lee County Board of Supervisors, we want to thank Ashley Furniture for continuing to reinvest in Lee County. This is a true testament to Ashley’s confidence in our community’s workforce, and we look forward to continuing to be a good partner with Ashley.” - Lee County Board of Supervisors President Wesley Webb
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About Mississippi Development Authority
Mississippi Development Authority is the state’s lead economic and community development agency. MDA focuses on new business recruitment, existing business expansion, workforce training, and tourism promotion. For more information, visit MDA’s website at mississippi.org.
Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC (Ashley) feels that every person deserves more value for their money. Established in 1945, Ashley is the largest manufacturer of home furnishings in the world and strives to be the most innovative and competitive home furnishings company on the planet. From design through fulfillment, Ashley is committed to delivering the world’s best home furnishing values, selection and service, and earning the loyalty and trust of its customers every day. Visit Ashley online at www.ashleyglobal.com and “like” Ashley Furniture Industries on Facebook.
