Company to create 56 jobs, corporate investment of approximately $9 million
Credit: Mississippi Development Authority
Shloop, a startup footwear manufacturer, is opening a sustainable manufacturing facility in Meridian. The project is a $9 million investment and will create 56 jobs.
“Shloop is another fantastic example of a Mississippi-grown company bringing innovation to the global marketplace,” said Gov. Tate Reeves. “Entrepreneurs like the team at Shloop are key to the dynamic economic environment in Mississippi that is driving manufacturing and job creation. I greatly look forward to seeing their continued success and expansion in Meridian.”
The footwear factory will be housed in a circa 1930’s bakery building comprising 30,000 square feet of space in downtown Meridian and will manufacture footwear in a more sustainable manner using renewable energy, recycled materials, advanced molding and shoe recycling technologies.
“Shloop’s investment is a great indicator of our state’s support of innovative startups,” said MDA Deputy Executive Director Laura Hipp. “MDA is glad to assist Shloop as it creates jobs in Lauderdale County, and we thank the company for helping encourage a culture of innovation that is efficient and effective across our state.”
The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) is providing assistance with building renovations and upgrades. The city of Meridian and Lauderdale County also will provide assistance.
Remodeling and opening the downtown building are part of plans to help revitalize downtown Meridian and promote community development and engagement.
“It is exciting to have Shloop located in downtown Meridian,” said Meridian Mayor Jimmie Smith. “This new business not only brings investments and jobs to our city, but it also gives new life to a building that has a great history. The city of Meridian looks forward to working with Ryan Hunt and other Shloop leadership as the company grows.”
Shloop is working with Meridian Community College’s Workforce Development Center for the training and education of artisans and technicians for the footwear industry.
Shloop is presently seeking individuals with technical or hand-crafting skills to fill the new jobs.
