The Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority announced that Better Way Products, a subsidiary of Patrick Industries, Inc., an Indiana-based company that designs, engineers, and manufactures fiberglass parts will be relocating in the Azalea City Business Park.

Better Way Products, a leader in original equipment manufacturer (OEM) will occupy and lease the former Robalo building, which has remained vacant for over 10 years. With an initial capital investment of $750,000 in equipment and personal property, Better Way has started renovations on the 217,000-square-foot facility and expect to be operational by April 1, 2019.

“We are excited that Better Way Products has selected the Valdosta area to expand their company footprint in Lowndes County,” said Tom Call, chairman of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority. “Not only are they making significant improvement to an existing structure, but they are also contributing to the community’s workforce.”

According to representatives with Better Way Products, approximately 86 employees will be hired within three years.  Job opportunities include general labor of fiberglass fabrication, assembling, packaging and administrative support.

“The team at Better Way Products spent many months visiting counties in the Southeast and felt that Valdosta offered a unique mix of facilities, was located in an advantageous location and a provided a workforce who will work with us to grow our company into the market leaders,” said Clint Decker, business unit director of Better Way Products.

“This project is especially important, not only for the jobs it creates, but the opportunity to use an existing facility and bring economic growth in Valdosta,” said Andrea Schruijer, executive director of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Development. “Having an inventory of existing facilities is important as we work to bring new companies to Lowndes County.”

Better Way Products is looking to hire 20-30 employees initially and is accepting applications via e-mail at [email protected] or visit the facility located at 600 Gil Harbin Industrial Blvd, Valdosta, GA 31601.