Automotive service equipment manufacturer Hunter Engineering is expanding operations in Durant, Mississippi. The project is an $8 million corporate investment and creates 60 jobs.
“Hunter Engineering’s expansion in Holmes County and creation of so many new jobs is a strong indicator that the efforts of our state, regional and local leaders to maintain a strong business environment continue to pay off for our corporate citizens and the citizens of Mississippi,” Governor Phil Bryant said.
Hunter Engineering is a leader in wheel alignment and wheel balancing systems, tire changers, brake service equipment, alignment lifts and inspection lanes. The company’s expansion includes an addition of approximately 85,000 square feet to accommodate increased manufacturing, painting and shipping operations. The expansion also includes a 500-square-foot workforce training area to support continuous employee development.
“The state of Mississippi has been a great partner throughout our decades of operation at multiple locations in the state. We appreciate Governor Bryant’s leadership and the significant support from the Mississippi Development Authority, Delta Regional Authority and the city of Durant in making this expansion a reality. We will continue to produce industry leading products with our quality workforce and updated facilities, including new investment in state-of-the-art equipment resulting from this expansion,” said Wayne Bowling, plant manager at Hunter Engineering’s Durant facility.
The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance for the building expansion and building improvements to the existing publicly owned facility. The Delta Regional Authority is providing assistance to extend water lines, relocate city-owned electric utility poles and install new electrical equipment in the Hunter facility. DRA funds will cover the cost of new transformers, conductors, switchboards and distribution panels to ensure the manufacturing plant receives safe and reliable power.
“Hunter Engineering’s expansion in Durant creating dozens of new careers is a shining example of teamwork that wins bringing economic opportunity to the people of Holmes county,” said MDA Executive Director Glenn McCullough, Jr. “We salute the leadership of the Delta Regional Authority and the City of Durant for working with our MDA Team to bring this project to fruition.”
“DRA is proud to invest in vital infrastructure improvements that will help create and retain jobs in Durant,” said DRA Chairman Chris Caldwell. “Our goal is to support projects like this that promote economic development, help rural communities become more competitive and create new jobs for our workers while protecting and securing existing jobs.”
Hunter Engineering employs approximately 590 workers in Mississippi, 192 of which are in Durant. The expansion is slated for completion by the end of 2020.