GEM Southeast creates 30 jobs in Stephens County

ATLANTA, October 28, 2014 – The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) today announced that GEM Southeast, Inc., a manufacturer of washroom accessories, toilet partitions and lockers, will expand its existing operations in Toccoa, creating 30 jobs and investing $10 million into the expansion. 'GEM Southeast is an excellent member of Georgia's robust manufacturing network,' said GDEcD Commissioner Chris Carr. 'The company's newest expansion solidifies our strength in this industry, one that employed nearly 482,000 Georgians in 2013. Without a doubt, GEM Southeast will continue to flourish and grow in Stephens County thanks to the highly skilled workforce and strong logistics infrastructure.' In the effort to meet capacity and growth needs, GEM Southeast Inc., headquartered in New York, will expand its operations in Stephens County with the construction of a new 110,000-square-foot facility that will manufacture plastic and metal, custom fabrication and commercial bathroom stalls and fixtures. Construction is anticipated to begin immediately and will be completed by the end of 2015. 'GEM Southeast is proud to be a part of the economic success in Georgia and especially Toccoa – Stephens County,' said Doug Hitchon, executive vice president and chief operating officer, GEM Southeast, Inc. 'They have all been great partners in the success and growth of our business. We value the relationships and environment of support we have here. We look forward to continued growth as we work together in Northeast Georgia.' The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD)'s Project Manager Tammy Caudell assisted GEM Southeast with this newest expansion on behalf of Georgia, along with Stephens County Development Authority Director Tim Martin. 'Toccoa and Stephens County are extremely proud that GEM Southeast has placed their confidence in our community for this investment,' said Toccoa Mayor Gail Fry. 'Thirty jobs is truly a boost for our economy. Their decision is verification of our support to existing businesses and that we are ready to accommodate new projects. GEM Southeast has been a wonderful community partner and we look forward to working with them in the future.' 'On behalf of the Stephens County Commissioners I would like to express my excitement regarding this announcement and thank GEM Industries for their faith and investment in Stephens County,' said Stephens County Commission Chairman Dean Scarborough. 'These new jobs and this investment by GEM Southeast is a testament to the company's commitment to their employees and this community. Stephens County is grateful to have the opportunity to share GEM Southeast's continued growth and we look forward to their bright future.'

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About GEM Southeast GEM Industries, Inc., part of the ASI Group, specializes in the manufacturing the full line of bathroom partitions, bathroom accessories, full line of lockers and plastic sheet for the marine, food and playground industries. GEM Southeast is composed of GEM Industries, Global Partitions, ASI Storage Solutions and Gem Plastics with over 300 associates working in Toccoa-Stephens County in three locations. About the Georgia Department of Economic Development The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) plans, manages and mobilizes state resources to attract new business investment to Georgia, drive the expansion of existing industry and small business, locate new markets for Georgia products, inspire tourists to visit Georgia and promote the state as a top destination for arts events and film, music and digital entertainment projects.