Effingham County, Georgia, is poised to see an uptick in job opportunities as Underwood Ammo, a prominent ammunition manufacturer, has announced plans to build a new $41 million facility in the region. The investment is expected to create 120 new jobs, tapping into local talent to boost the manufacturing and assembly operations of Underwood Ammo, a company specializing in handgun and rifle ammunition for hunting and self-defense, according to a statement from Governor Brian P. Kemp.
With this development, Governor Kemp hailed Georgia as a leading hub for manufacturers, particularly in the defense and sporting sectors, saying, "This sector has made several key investments in our state in recent years, with companies like Underwood Ammo creating quality jobs and investing in our communities like Effingham County." The new job possibilities come as a breath of fresh air for South Georgia, a region recently grappling with the economic blow of paper plant closures. Speaker Jon Burns welcomed the news on the office of the governor, stating, "Today’s announcement is timely news for the people of South Georgia as we continue to face the impacts of job loss due to paper plant closures across the region," while highlighting the strong business and job creation support in Effingham County.
The company's CEO, Kevin Underwood, expressed gratitude for the supportive reception from state and local leaders, framing the expansion as a key phase in the trajectory of Underwood Ammo. "Today marks an important milestone in the history of Underwood Ammo," he stated on the office of the governor, acknowledging the strategic positioning for future success facilitated by the investment in Effingham County. Set within Savannah Portside International Park, construction of the facility is slated to commence in 2026, with hiring for roles including operations, maintenance, and assembly anticipated to begin in 2027.
The arrival of Underwood Ammo dovetails with Effingham County’s ongoing community development and economic diversification efforts. District One Commissioner Forrest Floyd remarked on the office of the governor, "It’s a privilege to welcome Underwood Ammo to Effingham County," citing the quality of jobs and the anticipated contributions to the county's growth, with the local industrial development authority playing a crucial role in bringing these opportunities home. The project, backed by the collaborative endeavors of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, Georgia Quick Start, and Electric Cities of Georgia, also shines a spotlight on the region's industrial community's fortitude. Matt Saxon, Chairman of the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, underscored the project's significance in strengthening and diversifying the local job market.
As Georgia continues to cement its status as an advanced manufacturing ecosystem, GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson expressed excitement over Underwood Ammo's decision to invest in the state. "We’re excited to welcome Underwood Ammo to Georgia’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem," heralded Wilson on the office of the governor, placing confidence in Georgia's consistent infrastructure, skilled workforce, and business-friendly climate as the key drivers for fostering such investments. The state is primed and ready to join hands with Underwood Ammo in their growth journey within this supportive business landscape.
