To accommodate an increase in production, commercial kitchen equipment manufacturer Nokomis is expanding in De Kalb, Mississippi. The project is a $600,000 corporate investment and will create 12 jobs.

A subsidiary of Advance Tabco, Nokomis will produce kitchen equipment currently over committed at other locations while increasing the production of equipment currently manufactured in De Kalb. Nokomis is expanding operations into the former EMF building, which it purchased from Kemper County. The company also will maintain operations at its current location.

“We are thrilled with the opportunity to increase our manufacturing space in De Kalb. The amount of people who have come by to learn about job opportunities and commit to training has been impressive,” said Advance Tabco President & CEO Penny Hutner. “The individuals at the Mississippi Development Authority as well as the county have been easy to work with, and we thank them for their efforts on our behalf. “

Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance for building renovations. Eligible tax exemptions on investments will be considered by the county at the company’s request.

“Nokomis’ growth and creation of a dozen jobs will provide new opportunities for workers in Kemper County while positioning the company to compete successfully for many more years in East Mississippi,” Governor Phil Bryant said.

“As a target sector for growth in Mississippi, the manufacturing industry continues to strengthen economies in communities throughout the state, such as De Kalb,” said MDA Executive Director Glenn McCullough, Jr. “We salute the teamwork of the Kemper County Economic Development Authority and the Kemper County Board of Supervisors, which along with the MDA team, plays a key role in helping Nokomis achieve its goals in our state.”

Nokomis’ customers include Arby’s, Domino’s Pizza, Buffalo Wild Wings, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Starbucks, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit and numerous hotels and schools. The company currently employs 32 workers in De Kalb and expects to fill the 12 jobs over the next few months.