South Alabama’s industrial recruitment momentum continued this week.
J&M Industries, Inc. — a Louisiana-based parent company of four subsidiaries producing food packaging, industrial-grade tarps and covers — plans to open a new manufacturing and distribution facility in the Houston County Distribution Park near Dothan.
According to a Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce release, the project represents a significant Southeast expansion for J&M Industries, which has operated for more than five decades and is headquartered in Ponchatoula, Louisiana.
The planned facility will total approximately 70,000 square feet and will support both manufacturing and distribution operations. Construction is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026, with completion anticipated in 2027.
Once operational, the site is projected to create between 10 and 15 full-time jobs in Houston County.
Company leadership said workforce strength, location, and business climate helped drive the decision.
“Dothan and Houston County stood out to us because of their strong workforce, central location, and welcoming business climate,” said J&M managing owner Maurice Gaudet IV. “As a family-owned company, we value partnerships and community, and we believe this is the right place for J&M to continue growing for years to come.”
Local officials described the project as another positive indicator for the Wiregrass region’s industrial and logistics profile.
Houston County Commission Chairman Brandon Shoupe pointed to infrastructure and business conditions as contributing factors.
“J&M’s decision to locate in the Houston County Distribution Park speaks volumes about the strength of our infrastructure and the pro-business environment we’ve worked hard to create,” Shoupe said. “This project brings quality jobs to our community and reinforces Houston County’s position as a competitive destination for industry.”
Dothan Mayor Mark Saliba emphasized cooperation between city and county leaders in securing the project.
“This investment by J&M is another example of how Dothan and Houston County are working together to attract growing, family-owned companies,” Saliba said. “We are proud to welcome J&M and look forward to the positive impact this facility will have on our local economy.”
State Sen. Donnie Chesteen (R-Geneva) and State Rep. Paul Lee (R-Dothan) also welcomed the announcement, tying the project to broader regional confidence from employers.
“Economic development projects like this one demonstrate the confidence companies have in Southeast Alabama,” Chesteen and Lee said in a joint statement. “J&M’s investment in Houston County will provide meaningful job opportunities and further strengthen our region’s role in Alabama’s industrial and distribution network.”
Officials said local and state partners will continue working with the company as the project moves toward groundbreaking and eventual operations.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
