Nelson Wholesale Service, Inc. is locating a pet food and pet product distribution operation in Columbia, Mississippi, investing $2 million and creating 20 new jobs.
“Companies with distribution needs realize the competitive advantages of a Mississippi location. Our prime Southeast location and our extensive transportation network will allow Nelson Wholesale to reach customers quickly and efficiently from Columbia for years to come,” Governor Phil Bryant said.
Nelson Wholesale is relocating distribution operations from Hammond, Louisiana, to Columbia in Marion County. The company will operate in a 100,000-square-foot facility previously occupied by Orleans Furniture.
“We are extremely excited to be expanding our distribution footprint by opening our newest warehouse in Columbia, Mississippi. The community and professional team has been welcoming and supportive of our expansion. We look forward to building a long-term presence in the city,” said Nelson Wholesale Chairman John D. Harkey.
“Our business and our unique and diversified inventory featuring pet products, companion animal products and lawn and garden products is growing rapidly and fits perfectly in the Southeast. We are very fortunate to be expanding in such an extraordinary community and region,” said Nelson Wholesale President Cody B. Richmond.
The Mississippi Development Authority provided assistance in support of the project for building improvements and equipment relocation. Mississippi Power is providing the company assistance through its energy efficiency program, as well as providing a small business redevelopment rate incentive.
“We are pleased to welcome Nelson Wholesale as the newest member of Mississippi’s business community as they bring career opportunities to the people of Marion County,” said MDA Executive Director Glenn McCullough, Jr. “We salute our teammates at the Marion County Development Partnership, Mississippi Power, Centerpoint Energy, Marion County Board of Supervisors and the City of Columbia for their great work in bringing Nelson Wholesale to our state.”
Nelson Wholesale is scheduled to begin operations in December 2016.