Carry-On Trailer Expands in Franklin County

Expansion Represents $2.6 Million Investment, 85 Jobs

ATLANTA, GA – Governor Sonny Perdue announced today that Carry-On Trailer Corp., a Lavonia-based manufacturer of utility trailers, will undertake an 80,000-square-foot expansion of its manufacturing facility for a new line of enclosed trailers.  This expansion represents a $2.6 million investment in Franklin County, the creation of 85 jobs and the retention of 40 existing jobs at the facility.

“Carry-On is an excellent example of a family-owned, entrepreneurial company that has prospered in Georgia,” said Governor Sonny Perdue.  “Our state has made a commitment to supporting our existing industries, and companies like Carry-On help the state remain competitive in a global economy.”

Carry-On Trailer was established in 1996 with three employees.  Since that time, the company has expanded to include five facilities nationwide and has experienced profitable growth of more than 30 percent each year.  In 2002, the company completed a 40,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Lavonia and added 85 jobs for a $1.9 million investment in the community.  Carry-On currently produces 55,000 trailers per year and employs more than 1,100.

“These expansions have allowed our company to increase production beyond our greatest expectations,” said Carry-On President J. Pearson.  “Our company’s strong history has established a solid foundation for our growth and stability.  Georgia has provided a great home base for use to continue to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations.”

The company worked with the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) in executing the expansion, utilized the state’s Quick Start training program for its new employees and has been eligible for Georgia job tax credits.

“This expansion will be a boon to the Franklin County community both in terms of job creation and economic development,” said GDEcD Commissioner Craig Lesser.  “By supporting the growth of our existing industries, Georgia continues to ensure our state’s long-term prosperity.”

The company’s facility in Lavonia houses the corporate office, research and development division, warehousing and production.