MS: American Furniture Opening Manufacturing Facility in Amory, Hires 140

Officials from American Furniture announced the company has expanded its footprint in Mississippi by locating manufacturing operations in Amory in Monroe County. The project represents a corporate investment of $560,000 and the creation of 140 jobs. American Furniture has existing manufacturing operations in Ecru, Miss., where the company has 757 employees.

For the expansion, American Furniture is locating six manufacturing lines in the 130,000 square-foot facility most recently occupied by Madison House Furniture. The company will also use part of the building for warehousing and distribution.

“Mississippi’s furniture manufacturing industry has experienced significant growth over the past year, and American Furniture’s expansion into Amory is a good indicator that momentum will continue in the coming year. Additionally, the company’s expansion speaks volumes about the state’s supportive business climate and skilled workforce,” Gov. Phil Bryant said. “I thank the American Furniture team for creating so many jobs for the residents of Monroe County and for their ongoing commitment to the state of Mississippi.”

“AFM is excited about our start-up in Amory and being located in Monroe County. Our hope was to attract skilled associates that could jump start the operation, and our expectations have been surpassed by the number and skill levels of applicants we have received. Without the support of Mississippi Development Authority, the city and county, and the Monroe County Chamber, this project would not have happened so quickly,” said American Furniture CEO Al Wiygul. “Having grown up in Amory, I am proud to give back to a community that gave so much to me as a child growing up here. Our plan will put us at six production lines by the end of January. Our business has grown at 20-plus percent for the last three years. If that momentum continues, this could be just the beginning.”

Mississippi Development Authority provided assistance in support of the project for building modifications. The city of Amory and Monroe County provided assistance, as well.

“MDA salutes the talented teams at the city of Amory, Monroe County and the Monroe County Chamber of Commerce for their leadership, which along with the MDA team, supported American Furniture’s expansion into Amory,” said MDA Executive Director Glenn McCullough. “We look forward to this great company’s continued successful growth in North Mississippi.”

Founded in 1998 and based in Ecru, Miss., AFM is a leading domestic manufacturer of upholstered furniture for the promotional segment of the marketplace. AFM offers a complete product line that includes stationary and motion sofas, loveseats, sectionals, recliners, chairs and accent tables. For more information, visit www.americanfurn.net.