Big Creek Foods creates 25 jobs with new pet treat processing facility in Gainesville, Ga.

ATLANTA, June 5 – The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) announced today that Big Creek Foods will create 25 jobs at their new pet treat processing facility in Gainesville, Ga. 'Big Creek Foods reflects the kind of homegrown business that we seek to cultivate in Georgia,' said GDEcD Commissioner Chris Carr. 'Our competitive business climate, advanced workforce and small business community make it easy for start-up companies to flourish here.' Big Creek Foods will open a state-of-the art, 20,000-square-foot facility that will manufacture and distribute premium pet treats using food safety standards only found in human food production. Hiring has already begun and the company plans to double the job number within 3 years. 'Pets are family members and they deserve treats that are delicious, nutritious, and made from the highest quality ingredients, 'said Thomas Gay, President of Big Creek Foods.  'We are excited about starting up our brand new facility and bringing innovative products to this growing market.' Big Creek Foods is a family-owned business with more than 25 years of experience in food grade products as well as ingredients for pet foods.  The company plans to utilize a wide variety of ingredients including chicken that is sourced locally in North Georgia. There are currently eight pet food manufacturing facilities that operate in Georgia, employing 636 Georgians.  Tammy Caudell, GDEcD regional project manager, worked with the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce to assist the company. 'Big Creek Foods is a great family business,' said Kit Dunlap, President/CEO, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce. 'This business expansion fills a real need for a trusted source of quality food-grade treats for the American family dog.' About the Georgia Department of Economic Development The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) plans, manages and mobilizes state resources to attract new business investment to Georgia, drive the expansion of existing industry and small business, locate new markets for Georgia products, inspire tourists to visit Georgia and promote the state as a top destination for arts events and film, music and digital entertainment projects. www.georgia.org.