Handy Hardware Ceremonial Groundbreaking

Meridian, MS- On July 27, 2009, the EMBDC held the ceremonial groundbreaking for Handy Hardware's distribution facility in the Meridian 1-20/59 Industrial Park.  The member-owned hardware buying group will invest over $15 million in the 488,000 square foot distribution facility, which is part of its growth plan to serve members in the Southeastern United States.  The company conservatively estimates employing more than 175 people when it opens in late 2010. 

Like previous locations, it has taken many partnerships to bring this project to fruition.  During the ceremony, Wade Jones, president of the EMBDC recognized the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors, The City of Meridian and the electric utilities for their work in locating Handy Hardware.  "I want to say a special thank you to those who worked hard behind the scenes to make this project happen.  Skip Scaggs of the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation and Justyn Dixon of the Mississippi Development Authority have worked tirelessly on making this venture a reality in Lauderdale County."�

The program also included remarks by The Honorable Cheri Barry, Mayor of Meridian and Hank Florey, President of the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors who emphasized the great corporate citizen in Handy Hardware and the role the business will play in the future.  Tina Kirbie, president of Handy Hardware, emphasized how excited she is to being work on the distribution center in Meridian, while Bud Thompson, Chairman of the EMBDC Board of Directors expounded, "This project is significant, not only because of the job opportunities, but it creates the needed momentum to develop the I- 20/59 Industrial Park to the degree that enhances future growth."�

After the completion of the program, Tina Kirbie, Handy Hardware Board of Directors and officials representing the City of Meridian, Lauderdale County, the State of Mississippi, EMBDC and electric utilities officially broke ground on the site where Handy Hardware distribution center will locate.

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