Avid Boats adding 50 jobs in Amory with nearly $8M investment
Nov. 14—AMORY — Fishing boat manufacturer Avid Boats is renovating and expanding its facility in Monroe County with a $7.96 million investment that will create 50 new jobs over the next five years.
Avid Boats produces aluminum fishing boats from its headquarters in Amory. In March, a tornado significantly damaged the manufacturing facility. As a result, Avid is rebuilding and expanding from its original 85,000-square-foot facility to 100,000 square feet to accommodate current needs and future growth.
Construction is expected to be completed by December 2024.
"We at Avid Boats are proud to announce our commitment to growth and innovation. Despite the challenges we faced with the tornado, we are not just rebuilding; we are expanding. This expansion is a testament to our dedication to producing high-quality aluminum fishing boats and our belief in Mississippi's economic future," said Avid owner Phillip Faulkner.
Avid got its start in 2019. Faulkner had previously founded boat maker NauticStar in 2002. NauticStar was sold to MasterCraft in 2017 for about $80 million.
The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance for construction, as well as through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX. Monroe County, with its active support, including the conveyance of the real property for the facility's construction, will also play a key role in assisting with the project.
"Avid Boats' decision to grow their manufacturing facility here is a testament to our supportive business environment and skilled workforce," said Monroe Chamber of Commerce executive director Kelly Martin. "This development will boost job opportunities and further solidify Monroe County as a prime destination for business success."
