by Growth initiative expected to create 500 new jobs
JACKSON, Miss. — Ashley Furniture Industries announced plans to invest $80 million in an expansion of two existing facilities in Lee County, a move that will create some 500 new jobs.
The company said it is expanding its foam and mattress production in Verona with the purchase and renovation of a neighboring plant to its upholstery manufacturing facilities, along with the construction of a new facility.
It also plans to expand its mattress plant in Saltillo which it said is already the country’s largest mattress production facility. The overall expansion, it noted, aims to enhance the company’s operational efficiencies and better serve Ashley’s customers in more than 155 countries.
The expansion is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
“We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our Verona and Saltillo operations in Mississippi,” said Todd Wanek, president and chief executive officer of Ashley. “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.”
The company is receiving financial assistance for the project through the Mississippi Development Authority’s Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, also known as MFLEX, in addition to assistance to upgrade fire safety systems. Lee County also is assisting with the project through a fee-in-lieu agreement.
“Ashley Furniture is already one of Mississippi’s most well-known job creators,” said Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves. “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.”
