Mississippi company open for half a century announces $40.8 million expansion, 19 new jobs

A Mississippi company that has been open for more than 50 years has announced a $40 million dollar expansion that will create 19 new jobs.

Gulf States Canners, a key producer of canned and bottled products for Coca-Cola bottlers, is expanding its canning facility in Clinton. The company has been a part of the Clinton business community since 1972.

The expansion will involve modernizing the existing facility to boost efficiency and capacity, along with the addition of a new PET bottle production line for Coca-Cola sparkling products and Dasani water bottles. The project is expected to be completed within a year, with the 19 new jobs anticipated to be filled over the next two years. Currently, Gulf States Canners employs 88 workers at the Clinton facility.

The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) is supporting the project through its Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive (MFLEX) program, while AccelerateMS, the City of Clinton, and the Hinds County Board of Supervisors are also providing assistance.

Governor Tate Reeves celebrated the expansion, stating, “Gulf States Canners has been a valued business partner to Mississippi for over 50 years. This expansion brings new jobs and further growth to the City of Clinton, benefiting local communities and the state.”

MDA Executive Director Bill Cork added, “This corporate investment showcases the supportive business environment Mississippi offers, enabling companies like Gulf States Canners to thrive.”

Gulf States Canners General Manager Mark Shorter emphasized the company’s commitment to the Clinton community and local economy. “By modernizing our facility and adding a new production line, we are not only increasing operational efficiency but also creating job opportunities that will benefit the local economy.”

The expansion is a collaborative effort between local government, Entergy, and other business partners, with local leaders expressing enthusiasm for the project’s positive impact on the region’s economy.