Ashley expanding furniture manufacturing in Lee County

July 17 – 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.

“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.”

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.

“This strategic investment reinforces our commitment to growth and allows us to better serve our customers,” said Todd Wanek, CEO and President, Ashley. “By expanding our capabilities in Mississippi, we are creating more job opportunities and strengthening our presence in the region.”

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.

“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,” said Lee County Board of Supervisors President Wesley Webb.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.