This company’s $418M investment will bring 600 new jobs to Macon, Georgia governor says

Major investment is coming to Macon with a $418 million endeavor from a company that makes diapers and other youth training and hygiene products, Gov. Brian Kemp announced Thursday.

The investment from First Quality Baby Products, LLC will create 600 new jobs, Kemp announced.

“We’re always thankful when job creators like First Quality choose to expand in Georgia, and we’ll keep working to strengthen these long-term partnerships that enrich communities in every corner of the state,” said Kemp. “More than 70 percent of last year’s economic development projects were expansions of businesses already operating here in our state, and thanks to companies like First Quality, that positive trend will continue.”

First Quality Baby Products and its affiliates make baby diapers, youth and training pants, a full line of adult incontinence products, feminine hygiene and wipes products, paper towels, and bath tissue. The company also makes packaging products for health care, retail and commercial channels.

The company announced in March that it will increase its diaper and training pant manufacturing by 50%.

Allen Bodford, president of First Quality’s Absorbent Hygiene Division said in March, First Quality announced that it will be increasing its baby diaper and training pant manufacturing capacity by 50 percent.

“We are excited to announce our expansion will take place in Macon, Georgia. This expansion is a testament to First Quality’s innovative products and continuing commitment to the baby diaper market,” said Allen Bodford, president of the company’s Absorbent Hygiene Division. “We thank Governor Kemp, the Georgia Department of Economic Development, and the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority for their continued support. We also express our deep appreciation to our dedicated team in Macon for their tireless devotion to First Quality.”

First Quality’s expanded facilities will be located at 2108 Avondale Mill Road, adjacent to its current location in Macon. The company will be hiring for executive, administrative, supervisory and production positions.

Openings will be posted on the First Quality website as they become available.

Mayor Lester Miller said First Quality has been a strong member of Macon’s business community for many years.

“We are proud to stand with them as they invest millions in new infrastructure in our community, meaning hundreds of jobs will be retained and hundreds more created,” he said. “For doing business, this is the best community in the best state, and the success and expansion of First Quality is proof of that.”

Chairman Robby Fountain, Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority said the decision of First Quality to expand its operations in Macon is a testament to the strength and attractiveness of the local business environment in Macon-Bibb County.

He said the expansion highlights the confidence that businesses have in the community as a place to invest and thrive.

Pat Wilson, Georgia Department of Economic Development commissioner, said First Quality has been a respected Georgia company for well over a decade and continues to create competitive jobs for Macon-Bibb County.

“We’re thrilled about First Quality’s decision to grow their Georgia facility, benefiting from our skilled workforce and our acclaimed Georgia Quick Start training program. Congratulations to First Quality, Macon-Bibb County, and our regional partners on this exciting announcement,” he said.