Mulch manufacturer to locate in Whitley County, creating new jobs

Governor Matt Bevin's office says a mulch company is bringing a new manufacturing operation to Whitley County.

Sims Bark Co. of Georgia LLC will buy a 125,000-square-foot industrial building on approximately 65 acres near Corbin. The facility will create 21 jobs and include a nearly $3.8 million investment.

Sims Bark provides mulch, soil, rock products and other landscaping material to several stores including Walmart, Lowe's and The Home Depot.

“The new facility by Sims Bark adds to the Commonwealth’s thriving timber and forest-products industry while creating sustainable jobs and positive economic impact for Eastern Kentucky,” Gov. Bevin said. “Companies like Sims Bark are key players in our mission to bring new financial momentum to the region. I want to personally welcome Sims Bark to Kentucky and look forward to seeing them flourish in Whitley County and beyond. We are grateful for their investment.”

Company owners plan to begin renovating the facility later this year.

“Sims Bark is excited about expanding our operations in Kentucky,” said Mark Sanders, chief financial officer with Sims Bark. “We are committed to the local community and look forward to creating jobs for the area, while also meeting the growing demand for our quality bagged mulch and soil products. We appreciate the support shown by the Commonwealth of Kentucky and economic development officials we have worked with to make this project a reality.”