The Georgia Department of Economic Development announced that Stuckey’s, a more than 80-year-old family business known for its pecan log rolls, will create 60 new jobs and invest more than $5 million in expanding its Jefferson County facility and headquarters. The company will retain the 90 positions it currently employs at the facility.

“As the No. 1 state for business, Georgia is proud to be home to classic companies like Stuckey’s that continue to choose the Peach State to grow and thrive,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “As we continue to prioritize bringing jobs and investment to every corner of our state, small businesses that are essential to the fabric of their communities will remain one of our top priorities.”

Stuckey’s started as a roadside pecan stand in 1937 in Eastman, Georgia. In 2020, the company merged with Front Porch Pecan, a pecan snack company that sells to domestic and foreign markets and grocery stores in the Southeast U.S. The company continued to grow in 2021 by acquiring Atwell Pecans in Jefferson County, The Orchards Gourmet, and Thames corporations to add candy making, pecan processing, and fundraising businesses to the company’s portfolio.

“Stephanie and I both have roots that run deep in Georgia’s red clay soil,” said RG Lamar, Jr., President and Co-owner of Stuckey’s. “We are committed to growing not just the Stuckey’s brand but also partnering with the wonderful folks in Wrens, Georgia, to be a part of the community.”

“Southern hospitality and tourism are at the core of what we do at Stuckey’s, where every traveler is a friend,” said Stephanie Stuckey, CEO and Co-owner of Stuckey’s. “We’re excited to continue to be a part of the Explore Georgia program to encourage visitors to Wrens and our candy shop, where we offer Georgia Grown™ goods for sale. Our plans include reviving the original pecan shed where my grandfather started our company and bringing it to Wrens as a tourist attraction. The future is bright for Stuckey’s and Wrens, Georgia.”

Stuckey’s expanded facility will be located at 707 South Main Street in Wrens, and construction is expected to begin in January 2023. Over the next two years, the company will be hiring close to 60 new employees, and interested individuals can learn more about Stuckey’s at www.stuckeys.com.

“Jefferson County is extremely excited to have Stuckey’s remain in Wrens for their expansion and continued operations, especially for the existing employees and future employees,” said Greg Sellars, Executive Director of Development Authority of Jefferson County. “Our community is delighted to be part of the history, stature, and future of Stuckey’s.”

“The mission for the Georgia Grown program is to help foster the ever-growing community of agricultural producers, manufacturers, and retailers,” said Georgia Department of Agriculture Commissioner Gary W. Black. “For us, we’re all part of one big, happy family; and we love to see one success story after another. I applaud Stephanie Stuckey and RG Lamar, Jr., for their hard work bringing valuable jobs to our great state.”

Regional Project Manager Adela Kelley represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with Jefferson County Development Authority, Georgia Quick Start, and Georgia Power.

“Growing up in Georgia, Stuckey’s is a brand I feel like I have known my entire life. I couldn’t be more proud of the fact that this Georgia born and Georgia Grown company is reinvesting in the people and products that have made the company successful for years,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Georgia is one of the largest producers of – arguably the best tasting – pecans in the world. There is no doubt that is the secret to the continued success of the famous Stuckey’s pecan log. Congratulations to Jefferson County and Stuckey’s, and we look forward to your continued success!”

According to the Georgia Pecan Commission, Georgia produces an estimated 100 million pounds annually and is the top producer in the United States. Globally, the United States produces more than 80 percent of the world’s supply of pecans. Georgia pecans have been successfully introduced to international markets such as China, India, South Korea, and Turkey.