Area Development
Recreational boat manufacturer NauticStar is expanding its facility in Amory, Mississippi, to accommodate the production of boats larger than 28 feet. The project represents a company investment of $460,259 and will create 30 new jobs.

The expansion will involve the addition of 20,000 square feet to NauticStar’s existing 160,000 square feet of manufacturing space. It will connect the company’s two existing facilities. Founded in 2002, NauticStar is a privately owned LLC. Located on an 18-acre campus, NauticStar currently has two plants totaling 160,000 square feet. The company manufactures high-quality bay boats, deck boats and offshore boats, ranging from 18 to 25 feet.

“We have worked very hard since the downturn of 2009 to gain our business back. The boat market has been improving since 2010. In 2012, we surpassed our peak volume of 2007, and we have had steady growth since that time,” said NauticStar President Phil Faulkner. “We are very excited to have made the commitment to continue to expand our facility and workforce and to grow our business. This expansion is driven by the market demand from the saltwater offshore fishing boat sector.”

“I appreciate the team at NauticStar for further investing in its Amory operations and for creating these new job opportunities for the residents of Monroe County. In Mississippi, our economic development professionals strive to maintain a strong, supportive business climate and well-trained workforce so companies can achieve and maintain success,” Governor Phil Bryant said. “This expansion by NauticStar serves as a testament to the fact that Mississippi is a great place for business, and I wish the company many more years of success in Amory.”

The Mississippi Development Authority provided assistance in support of the project for building modifications. The City of Amory and Monroe County are also providing assistance for the project in the form of ad valorem tax exemptions.

“Mississippi’s existing businesses are at the core of the state’s economy, and NauticStar’s expansion serves as a testament to the fact that Mississippi offers a supportive business climate that fosters growth and helps companies remain competitive in today’s marketplace,” said MDA Executive Director Brent Christensen. “We thank our partners in Monroe County, the city of Amory, the Monroe County Board of Supervisors and the Monroe County Chamber of Commerce for working together to foster a pro-business environment and for helping this great company expand in Amory.”