Pictured: Front row, from left – Amy Johnson-MCCDA, Kirk DeMott-DeMott Enterprises, Cole Posey-MCCDA, Ross Dekle-MCCDA, Raphael Mortati-Memphis Health Foods, Adriana, Julia and Joao Mortati, Pete Dillard-City of Moultrie, Mayor Bill McIntosh; Back row from left – Jon Schwalls-MCCDA, RJ Taylor-MCCDA, Dan Jeter-MCCDA, Briley Edwards-MCCDA
For Immediate Release: 2/20/26 Contact: ajohnson@selectmoultrie.com
Moultrie/Colquitt County, Georgia — The Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority (MCCDA), in partnership with Memphis Health Food Distributors LLC, announced the launch of a new U.S.-based manufacturing initiative in Moultrie, Colquitt County, Georgia. Memphis Health Foods, a healthy food and supplement product company, will expand its domestic production capacity and enhance supply chain resilience.
The facility will be located at 11 8th Avenue NE, Moultrie, Georgia 31768, with building renovations planned as part of the project’s initial phase. Renovations are expected to begin Monday, February 23, 2026.
Memphis Health Food plans to implement phased hiring as production ramps up. Approximately 30 jobs are anticipated in the first year, with employment expected to grow to up to 90 positions within five years, depending on demand and expansion milestones. The project is expected to represent an investment of more than $2 million dollars. Positions are expected to include roles in manufacturing, operations, quality systems, warehousing, and logistics.
Distribution to multiple U.S. distribution centers across several states will include Sugar-Free Brownie Crisps, Mushroom Coffee, Creatine, Protein supplements, and additional product lines, demonstrating documented commercial demand and multi-state fulfillment planning. The operation is structured to serve markets and partners across multiple states, thereby contributing to the expansion of domestic manufacturing capacity on a national scale and strengthening domestic supply chain continuity.
“The Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority is proud to welcome Memphis Health Food Distributors to our community. This investment reflects the continued strength of Colquitt County as a competitive location for growing manufacturers,” said Ross Dekle, Chairman of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority. “This project delivers quality job creation and meaningful capital investment in a critical and growing sector. Memphis Health Food’s decision to locate in Moultrie underscores the competitive advantages our community provides — including workforce availability, logistical accessibility, and a supportive business environment — and we look forward to supporting the company’s long-term growth and success in Colquitt County.”
The project’s execution relies significantly on the leadership and industry experience of Mr. Raphael Mortati, whose background in international food manufacturing and supply chain coordination was considered instrumental to the initiative’s successful implementation.
The expansion supports broader efforts to reinforce domestic manufacturing, enhance domestic supply chain resilience, and increase U.S.-based production capacity. By investing in manufacturing infrastructure in Colquitt County, Memphis Health Foods aims to create employment opportunities while expanding access to U.S.-produced goods nationwide and contributing to the strengthening of domestic manufacturing capacity at a national scale.
Pictured: (Back Row) Scott Brown, Pratt; Tom Savage, Transwestern; MCCDA Board Member Briley Edwards; MCCDA Board Member and City Council Member Cole Posey; MCCDA Board Member Jon Schwalls; Cody Lolakis, Transwestern; MCCDA Board Member Dan Jeter; (Front Row) MCCDA President Amy H. Johnson; MCCDA Board Chair Ross Dekle; Katie Leonard, Pratt; Ellis Thorp, Pratt; MCCDA Board Member David Herndon; Ferrell Sruggs, Jr. – Cat Creek Development
The Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority approved an agreement with Pratt Industries, Inc. (through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Pratt Corrugated Holdings, Inc.) for an expansion of its Moultrie warehouse located at 308 Industrial Drive.
The expansion comes with significant investment into the company’s southern Georgia operations and continued growth within the region. In addition to creating several new full-time jobs, it will bring increase service and support for Georgia’s agriculture industry and the many customers Pratt serves in the region.
“The Moultrie warehouse is an integral part of our strategic hub-and-spoke model to serve this important agriculture market,” said Ellis Thorp, General Manager for Pratt Agriculture. “With the addition of our new Warner-Robins box plant and the investments we’ve made in our Albany operations, Pratt continues to show our commitment to this important industry and region.”
“Pratt’s expansion in Moultrie demonstrates the critical role existing industries play in driving economic growth,” said Amy Johnson, President, Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority Board. “The Board remains dedicated to supporting companies like Pratt as they continue to invest and add jobs in our community.”
“This expansion by Pratt Industries is an exciting milestone for Colquitt County and for South Georgia’s agricultural economy,” said Ross Dekle, Chairman of the Moultrie–Colquitt County Development Authority. “Pratt has been a valued partner in our community, and this continued investment underscores both the strength of our local workforce and the strategic importance of Moultrie as a hub for agriculture and manufacturing. We are proud to support Pratt’s growth and look forward to the long-term benefits this project will bring to our farmers, businesses, and families.”
Based in Atlanta, Pratt is the largest individually owned manufacturing company in America and the largest privately-held producer of 100% recycled containerboard in the world. Pratt Agriculture has proudly served the fresh produce and farming community for more than 30 years.
About Pratt Industries, Inc. Pratt Industries, Inc. operates manufacturing facilities in more than 25 states. The Georgia-based company operates an extensive recycling company to supply six of the most modern, cost-effective 100% recycled paper mills in the country, located in: Conyers, Georgia; Staten Island, New York; Valparaiso, Indiana; Shreveport, Louisiana; Wapakoneta, Ohio; and Henderson, Kentucky. Pratt is America’s fifth largest corrugated packaging company and the world’s largest, privately-held 100% recycled paper and packaging company. For more information, please visit www.PrattIndustries.com.
The Moultrie‑Colquitt County Development Authority is pleased to share that Variety Companies is expanding its operations to Citizens Business Park, located on Hwy 133 South. This project includes constructing a new building to support the company’s continued growth in South Georgia and North Florida.
Variety Companies is a family‑owned and operated business that has served our region for decades with vending, office coffee, micro‑market, and food services.
Owners George and McCants Plymel shared that supporting local businesses throughout their expansion is important to them, reflecting their long‑standing commitment to our community.
The expansion represents a significant investment in our community and will increase job opportunities as Variety Companies grows its service footprint in the region.
Just a block away from downtown lies the historic Warehouse District, a place that once thrived with the sights and smells of tobacco markets, bustling auctions, and farmers gathering to sell their crops. Many in our community still cherish memories of visiting these warehouses with family, a tradition that helped shape Colquitt County’s farming heritage.
Over time, the area fell into decline, becoming blighted and forgotten. But today, we’re witnessing a remarkable revival! In the past year, new life has returned with the addition of the new Food Bank, J&J Roofing and Construction Company, and So Danca’s beautifully renovated space, once a tobacco warehouse, now a distribution hub.
Now, we’re thrilled to share that another piece of history has been purchased by the Sangha family. Their vision? To restore this building, clean it up, and bring it back to its former glory. Projects like this remind us why we’re excited about the future of our community while honoring its past.
Here’s to transformation, progress, and preserving the legacy of the Warehouse/Tobacco District. Stay tuned for updates.
We’re excited to welcome Marshall’s to the Moultrie Exchange Center — officially opening their doors on September 18, 2025. Led by Store Manager Janice Pless, Marshall’s has already hired 75 new employees, bringing fresh energy and opportunity to our community.
Economic Impact Highlights *Job Creation: 75 new positions filled locally *Sales Tax Revenue: Increased retail activity boosts local and state tax collections *Tax Base Growth: The Moultrie Exchange Center contributes to long-term property and business tax growth for Moultrie and Colquitt County
A huge thank you to our incredible partners who made Moultrie Exchange possible: *JBS Capital *Colquitt County Board of Commissioners *City of Moultrie – Government *Moultrie Colquitt County Development Authority
Community Support As part of their grand opening, Marshall’s presented the Moultrie-Colquitt County Food Bank with a generous $10,000 donation, reinforcing their commitment to supporting local families and neighbors.
Community Impact Together with Hobby Lobby’s creation of 65 jobs, the Moultrie Exchange has already generated over 100 new jobs for our area — and we’re just getting started!
And the momentum continues…
Five Below is expected to open soon, bringing even more opportunities and shopping fun to the Exchange!
It’s Official – Hobby Lobby is Now Open in Moultrie!
We’re excited to announce that Hobby Lobby has officially opened its doors at the Moultrie Exchange Center! This milestone marks a win for our community — bringing new jobs, generating sales tax revenue, and returning the property to the tax rolls. Store Manager Kevin Sharp announced Hobby Lobby has hired 65 employees.
A huge thank you to our incredible partners who made this possible:
JBS Capital
City of Moultrie – Government
Colquitt County Board of Commissioners
Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority (MCCDA)
ATLANTA – August 29, 2025 – Announced today, EnergyTek Corporation (EnergyTek) is planning to invest at least $275 million in establishing new manufacturing operations in Moultrie, Colquitt County. Following a multi-year ramp up, the company expects to create a total of 1,300 jobs at full operations.
“Georgia’s commitment to innovation continues to attract companies like EnergyTek that are investing and creating good jobs in every corner of our state,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “We congratulate our partners in Colquitt County on this important milestone for the Citizen Business Park.”
EnergyTek plans to manufacture utility scale and commercial solar panels, inverters, EV charging systems, micro grids, and other renewable energy components in Moultrie.
“Through this multi-phase investment, EnergyTek will be able to manufacture multiple aspects of the energy and electrification supply chain, simplifying vertical integration,” said Dr. Cristian Toma, CEO of EnergyTek. “Georgia’s industrial ecosystem and world-class logistics will support efficient distribution and supply chain integration as EnergyTek scales up production in Moultrie over the next few years.”
EnergyTek’s new manufacturing operations will be located in Citizen Business Park, a “Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development” (GRAD) site, in Moultrie. Construction on the first phase is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025. The company will be hiring for management, engineering, production, and administrative positions over the next few years. Interested individuals can learn more about EnergyTek at www.energytekcorp.com.
“We are honored that EnergyTek has chosen Moultrie and Colquitt County as the site of its new manufacturing facility,” said Chairman Ross Dekle, Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority. “This significant investment will create high-quality, well-compensated manufacturing jobs for our residents and represents a meaningful contribution to the continued growth and prosperity of our community.”
Assistant Director of Existing Industry and Regional Recruitment Tina Herring represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with the Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority, City of Moultrie, Georgia Power, and Georgia Quick Start.
About EnergyTek Corporation EnergyTek Corporation is focused on bringing low cost of electricity infrastructure to commercial and utility scale customers by vertically integrating the value chain between power generation, management, and distribution.
Media Contacts Jessica Atwell – Communications Manager Georgia Department of Economic Development JAtwell@Georgia.org
Dr. Cristian Toma – CEO EnergyTek Corporation Cris.toma@energytekcorp.com
The Economic Development Authority has been working closely with Só Dança for close to a year to bring this exciting day to life. We’re thrilled to welcome Lisias, Liliana Ranson, and the entire Só Dança family to Moultrie and Colquitt County!
Their investment in the new distribution center is a significant win, not just for SSó Dança, but for our entire community and all of South Georgia. Here’s to growth, partnership, and a bright future together!
If you are interested in applying for a job, send your resume to this address: inquiries@sodanca.com. Visit the Só Dança website at https://weknowdance.com/.
The Moultrie Colquitt County Development Authority Board of Directors will host a called board of directors meeting on Tuesday, February 25, 2024, at 12:00 noon. The meeting will be held at the Development Authority offices, located at 31 East Central Ave, Moultrie.
Should there be any questions please contact the Development Authority, at (229) 890-5455, or via email at ajohnson@selectmoultrie.com.
