Hood Industries Investing $245 Million in Waynesboro Sawmill Expansion
WAYNESBORO, Miss. — Sept. 3, 2025 — Hood Industries, Inc. announced plans Tuesday to expand its sawmill operations in Wayne County with a nearly quarter-billion-dollar investment in a new state-of-the-art facility.
The $245 million project will be built in phases on land adjacent to the company’s existing Waynesboro mill. Construction is expected to be completed by October 2026.
The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) is supporting the project through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive (MFLEX) program and road and infrastructure improvements. Wayne County, AccelerateMS, Dixie Electric and Cooperative Energy are also partnering in the expansion effort.
Hood Industries has manufactured wood products in Mississippi for more than 40 years and currently operates three southern yellow pine sawmills, including two in the state.
Gov. Tate Reeves praised the announcement, calling it “the latest win in Mississippi’s record-breaking economic development efforts.” Reeves said the expansion reflects the state’s momentum in attracting corporate investment.
MDA Executive Director Bill Cork added that the project continues a trend of record-setting job and investment announcements across Mississippi since 2020.
Jay Galloway, president of Hood Industries, said the new mill underscores the company’s long-term commitment to its employees and the Waynesboro community.
Local leaders echoed that sentiment. Wayne County Board of Supervisors President Keith Clay said the investment highlights both the county’s workforce and its role in Mississippi’s Pine Belt economy. AccelerateMS Executive Director Dr. Courtney Taylor emphasized the importance of workforce training, while Dixie Electric General Manager Randy Smith pledged reliable power to fuel the company’s growth.
