Gaia Herbs Announces Mills River Expansion

Town incentives lead to 30 jobs, $12.2 million investment.

MILLS RIVER, NC – Aug. 2018

Even in today’s economy, community supporters should still get excited about manufacturers choosing to grow in Henderson County. Even more so when that company brings both a benefit to the workforce coupled with a sustainable focus. All-natural products, like the ones Gaia Herbs produces, are changing the game.

After receiving incentives from Henderson County and the Town of Mills River, Gaia Herbs announced Aug. 6, 2018, that it will create 30 new jobs and expand its footprint in western North Carolina. The company plans to invest $12.2 million at a new location in Broadpointe Industrial Park that will house offices, production, and warehousing.

Headquartered in Brevard, Gaia Herbs is a privately held company founded in 1987. It employs over 260 people and works with an extensive network of organic farmers, healthcare professionals, and research institutions globally to support its 31-year tradition of innovation in the herbal products industry.

Partners and associates of the project have high praise for how it all came together.

“The new site provides an ideal location due to its close proximity to the Asheville Regional Airport, the I-26 interstate, shipping hubs, as well as our existing facilities in Brevard and Mills River, allowing us to consolidate multiple leased facilities and increase operating efficiencies, ” said Brian Traylor, Vice President of Operations at Gaia Herbs.

“Gaia Herbs is the perfect fit for Mills River. An agricultural based company expanding in the production realm is synonymous with the culture of our community,” Mills River Mayor Chae Davis said.

“In today’s growing economy, we are always pleased when local companies continue to invest and employ people in Henderson County. Gaia has been a player in many of our workforce initiatives here; we look forward to a continued partnership that will create jobs for our citizens,” added Chairman Michael Edney of the Henderson County Board of Commissioners.

“Gaia has grown from a $2,000 startup in the Boston suburbs to a $50 million industry leader. Western North Carolina has been the backdrop for that growth and Henderson County is excited for the opportunity to play a key role in the next phase of this company’s success story,” said Jim Rasmussen, Chair of the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development.