A major grocery distributor just announced plans to invest $35 million in a Hickory, NC expansion.
Merchants Distributors (MDI) will be building a new 250,000 complex in Hickory, adding 125 new jobs to the region.
“Businesses that call North Carolina home continue to thrive here,” said Governor Cooper in a press release. “MDI knows firsthand the workforce, business and quality of life advantages North Carolina offers and it is great to see them grow once again in our state.”
The company was originally founded in Hickory in 1931 and now distribute both food and non-food grocery items to more than 600 retail stores across the US. The company also provides additional retail support to its customers, including marketing and other services. Their new expansion will add considerable perishable capacity to their facilities.
“Hickory, North Carolina has been our home for over ninety years, and we are excited to support our continued growth with another expansion at our Caldwell County facilities in the city of Hickory,” said MDI CEO Brian George. “As our business continues to grow, demand for perishable products has increased the need for chilled warehouse space to service our customers and communities. North Carolina continues to support business growth and invest in workforce development which makes expanding at this location possible.”
The average salary of the 125 new jobs will be $59,092, which is above the current average wage in Caldwell County of $43,905. It’s estimated that state and local area will see an additional impact of over $7 million each year from the new payrolls.
You can find out more information about MDI or apply to one of their new jobs here.