National Food Products Maker Expanding in North Carolina

As part of the expansion, the company will create 500 jobs and invest $16.8 million during the next three years. The company also will retain more than 700 existing jobs at its Claremont facility, according to the state.

Although wages will vary by job function, the new jobs will pay an annual average salary of $26,467.

"Pierre Foods is thrilled at this opportunity to support both growth in our business and economic activity in the state of North Carolina, said Bill Toler, CEO of Pierre Foods. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the state and thank all of our dedicated employees within the region for their contributions to our success.

The company received a $600,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund. The fund provides financial assistance, through local governments, to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create new jobs in the state.

Companies receive no money up front and must meet job-creation and investment performance standards to qualify for grant funds. The grants also require and are contingent upon local matches.