ASI Is Project Orange, Announces Stephens Co. Expansion

Officials release more details on an economic development project in Stephens County.

The Georgia Department of Economic Development today is identifying “Project Orange” as an expansion by ASI Southeast in Stephens County.

ASI Southeast, which makes washroom accessories, toilet partitions, and lockers, is building a new $16 million manufacturing facility in Toccoa that will create 50 jobs.

The building, located in the Meadowbrook Industrial Park, will have 140,000 square feet of manufacturing space and an additional 12,000 square feet of office space that will manufacture plastic and metal, custom fabrication and commercial bathroom stalls and fixtures.

State officials said the newly created jobs will include positions in plastic extrusion operations.

Toccoa Mayor Jeanette Jamieson said she is delighted.

“Not only is this a company that is a good community citizen, but it is a quality operation,” said Jamieson. “I think that is what every community desires, to bring in jobs, number one, but to bring in quality jobs with a quality company is even more rewarding and ASI is certainly that.”

Meanwhile, Stephens County Commission Chair Debbie Whitlock said a team effort working with ASI is to credit for this news.

“ASI doesn’t just provide jobs, they are an integral part of our community and we appreciate their commitment and dedication to grow in Stephens County,” said Whitlock. “We appreciate their continued commitment to our community and are glad to see the community grow through the efforts of the development authority, chamber of commerce, the City of Toccoa, and Stephens County.”

This will be the fourth major expansion by ASI Southeast over the last 12 years and brings the company’s total investment in Stephens County to more than $50 million.

Over that time, ASI Southeast has seen its employee base grow from 145 to more than 400 in the last 10 years.

Stephens County Development Authority Board Chair Brian Akin said they applaud ASI’s decision to invest further in this community.

“ASI’s roots run very deep in Stephens County and they are a tremendous corporate citizen,” said Akin. “Nothing is more satisfying in the economic development business than seeing a local company successfully grow their business and expand their operations. All of us at the SCDA will do our part to make sure that ASI’s success continues.”

Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber Board Chair Stacy Miller also applauded the announcement.

“For over 30 years ASI has demonstrated strong leadership and a real sense of direction which is continually seen in their proven record of success and growth,” said Miller. “On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, congratulations on your success and thank you for your continued investment in our community.”

Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson says it is clear that ASI has found a home in Stephens County that best serves the needs of the company and its customers.

Meanwhile, ASI Southeast Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Doug Hitchon says ASI is excited to continue its journey in Stephens County.

Hitchon says ownership that invest and are committed to the company and its great employees, along with a relationship with Stephens County that provides for cooperation and opportunity have laid the foundation for more growth in Stephens County.

Construction on the expansion is expected to be finished in the Fall.