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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Parkdale Mills Invests $85 Million To Expand Its Rabun Gap, Georgia, Manufacturing Campus

10/23/2013
The country’s largest manufacturer of spun yarn, Parkdale Mills, will invest $85 million to expand its production plants in Rabun Gap, Georgia, creating 210 new jobs in the region.

Using advanced new technology, Parkdale Mills’ Rabun Gap facility will be converted from a 100 percent cotton T-shirt product line to a polyester/cotton blended yarn for the performance wear business. The 750,000-square-foot facility is located at 815 John Beck Dockins Road, in Rabun Gap.

“The decision to reinvest in Rabun Gap was easy thanks to the community that has given us a warm welcome and the many state and local organizations that have aided our growth,” said Lee Thomas, Vice President of Services with Parkdale. “An investment of this magnitude could not take place without their support.”

Plant expansion will occur in two stages, with each phase creating about half of the total jobs. The facility will stay in operation at all times, with one plant running while the other is being renovated. Parkdale purchased the Hanes Brands facility in Rabun Gap in 2009 and produces fiber for use in high-end, quality active wear that is sold in sports stores. The company will begin installing equipment in early 2014 and anticipates completion by end of that year.

“When a successful Georgia operation like Parkdale Mills decides to expand its facility and its employment roster, it’s a win for all concerned, especially for our workforce,” Gov. Nathan Deal said. “The textile industry has deep roots in Georgia and remains a vital part of our manufacturing sector thanks to our strategic location, logistics advantages and the expertise our skilled workers bring to the table.”

“The economic impact of Parkdale’s commitment to this community cannot be underestimated, both in economic and human terms,” said Greg James, Chairman of the Rabun County Commission. “This company has been one of our foremost corporate citizens over the years, and we are delighted that they have found our Rabun County workforce and our other business advantages the key ingredients for their continued success here.”

“By choosing to stay in Georgia, the company is not only adding jobs, but retaining people already working there,” said Pat Wilson, Chief Operating Officer of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “Job retention is part and parcel of economic development – that’s why we have a whole team of regional representatives who focus on assisting existing industries in the state.”

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