Tool and die maker moves to new location, hires 10 workers

RIPLEY, Miss. (AP) - A Mississippi tool and die maker is doubling employment as it transfers location.

North MS Tool said Monday it has moved from Booneville to Ripley in a $700,000 expansion, hiring 10 new workers and transferring 10 jobs.

The Mississippi Development Authority is giving the company $40,000 to help with electrical work inside the building.

North MS Tool began operating in Ripley in August, renting space from customer CECA Forge. The company has sold its Booneville building.

North MS Tool President Mark Floyd says the move will help the company grow and better serve existing customers.

MDA spokeswoman Tammy Craft says the company hasn’t applied for local property tax breaks. She says workers are paid about $16 an hour.