Alabama is already known agriculturally nationwide for its pecan production.
Now, that profile is set to grow even further after New Mexico-based Southern Roots Nut Co. announced recently that it will be opening a pecan processing facility in Dothan. The new facility is expected to create 120 jobs with an annual payroll exceeding $4.1 million, according to the Alabama Department of Commerce.
“Year after year, the skilled hands working at Alabama’s food production businesses prove there is a good reason the state’s agriculture industry has earned a national reputation,” said Governor Kay Ivey of the news. “Southern Roots Nut Co. is a welcome addition to the business community in Sweet Home Alabama, and I know that its planned facility in Dothan will find success thanks to a dedicated and skilled workforce.”
The company will be investing nearly $16.6 million to outfit an existing building and construct a new facility in Houston County as a hub to process, store and distribute raw pecans.
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Brandon Harrell, Southern Roots’ chief operating officer and president of sales, spoke highly of the city which was selected over a competing location in Georgia.
“My family has called Dothan home since early 2018 and I couldn’t think of a better place to continue our family’s tradition shelling and processing pecans than Dothan,” said Harrell. “We are truly excited to partner with business-friendly state, county and city officials who truly want the best opportunities for their respective areas.”
Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary, Ellen McNair, noted the significance of the pecan to the Yellowhammer State.
“Pecans are a trademark product for Alabama’s agriculture industry, with an estimated 9,000 acres of orchards in the state,” said McNair. “The processing facility planned by Southern Roots is good news for those involved in the business of Alabama’s official state nut.”
Alabama is partnering with Dothan to support the project through a package that includes tax credits and AIDT workforce development services. Dothan and the Industrial Development Board are providing the company with assistance through the AMEA Capital Fund Program, local statutory tax abatements, and discretionary support.
Southern Roots is a pecan grower and processor that specializes in delivering pecans and pecan products to customers worldwide. The company focuses on sustainable farming practices and advanced technology to ensure efficiency and quality in its operations.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
