(Photo from A&W Custom Furniture website)
A&W Custom Furniture is investing $2.2 million to expand its manufacturing operations in Okolona, a project that will create 20 jobs and increase the company’s production capacity.
Founded in 2023, A&W Custom Furniture manufactures upholstered furniture, specializing in sofas and sectionals. The company currently employs 72 workers and operates three production lines at its facility in Chickasaw County.
The expansion will allow the company to purchase the manufacturing facilities it currently leases, add a fourth production line and make improvements to its existing operations. The project also includes new equipment designed to increase production capacity and accommodate continued sales growth.
Gov. Tate Reeves said the company’s expansion reflects its growth in just three years and its contributions to the local economy.
“A&W Custom Furniture’s growth is another great Mississippi success story. In just a few short years, this homegrown company has built a strong business and become an important part of the Okolona community,” Reeves said. “Furniture manufacturing has long been an important part of Mississippi’s economy by supporting jobs and communities across our state. With this expansion, A&W Custom Furniture is building on that legacy and creating even more opportunities for the people of Chickasaw County.”
The Mississippi Development Authority is supporting the project through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX. Chickasaw County and the city of Okolona also are providing assistance.
MDA Executive Director Bill Cork said the company’s investment demonstrates its readiness to expand and meet growing demand for its products.
“A&W Custom Furniture has accomplished a lot in just three years, and this expansion shows the company is ready to do even more in Okolona,” Cork said. “When a manufacturer is ready to grow, speed matters, and Mississippi has the workforce and partners to help A&W put new investment to work and take on more business fast. MDA is proud to support this expansion and help get more Mississippi-made furniture into the marketplace.”
A&W Custom Furniture owner Craig Wedel expressed appreciation for the community’s support and optimism about the company’s future in Okolona.
“We are excited to see what the future holds here in Okolona. So far, it has been great, and we have accomplished a lot,” Wedel said. “We are grateful for our community and everyone that has supported us on this journey. Thank you for investing in our mission and partnering with us to create this expansion with job opportunities.”
The $2.2 million investment and planned addition of 20 jobs will further expand A&W Custom Furniture’s presence in Chickasaw County while increasing its ability to manufacture and distribute upholstered furniture.
For more information about A&W Custom Furniture, visit aandwfurniture.com.