The Georgia Department of Economic Development announced that Healthy Pet, a global leader in natural fiber processing for use in pet care, will create 15 new jobs at its existing facility in Wayne County. The company will invest $9.3 million in new machinery and equipment that will provide for a new cat litter line.

“Healthy Pet reflects the kind of growth and longevity that we seek to cultivate in Georgia,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Our small business resources, and pro-business environment make it easy for companies to flourish here, and I look forward to their continued success.”

Healthy Pet’s investment will support new machinery and equipment for its new cat litter line, ökocat, and equipment to automate their packaging operations. The company will source renewable pine wood chips produced within the region.

“Healthy Pet expanded to Wayne County almost 15 years ago due to the support and encouragement of the GDEcD and Wayne County Industrial Development Authority,” said Healthy Pet CEO Ted Mischaikov. “The relationship has been a positive one from the start and has now lead to follow-on investment which will end our reliance on imported product and launch domestic production of our fast growing cat litter.”

Headquartered in Ferndale, Washington, Healthy Pet currently has 55 employees in Jesup. Newly created jobs include positions in production, material handling and maintenance.

“This is definitely good news for Healthy Pet and Wayne County. We are always thrilled when jobs come to Wayne County and excited that Healthy Pet has chosen to expand here. This industry has been extremely valuable to our community,” said IDA Executive Director Dell Keith.  IDA Chair Ralph Trapnell also commented, “We appreciate Healthy Pet’s decision to remain in Wayne County and expand their operation here. We always strive to support existing industry and their growth in our community.”

GDEcD assistant director of Entrepreneurs and Small Business, Ryan Waldrep, represented the Global Commerce division in partnership with the Wayne County Industrial Development Authority.