North Carolina-based Gaia Herbs (Gaia) announced the expansion of its operations in western North Carolina with the construction of a new facility in Mills River.

The facility will be located in the Broadpointe development, which is also home to several other local companies, including Raumedic AG, Sierra Nevada, Empire Distribution, and the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center among others.

“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 for Gaia Herbs. “The new facility will provide an additional 140,000 square feet allowing space for state-of-the-art manufacturing and distribution capabilities as well as increased office space. And as our growth continues, the site will also accommodate a further expansion of 100,000 square feet of space in the future.”

To help confirm the company expansion in Henderson County, NC, the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development worked with Gaia Herbs to help secure approximately $300,000 in economic development incentives from Henderson County and the Town of Mills River.

“There is increasing consumer awareness and curiosity about herbal products, and a rapidly growing demand for effective, trusted, plant-based wellness offerings that enhance a healthy lifestyle,” said Angela McElwee, president of Gaia Herbs. “Gaia Herbs has long been the leader in this space, and we are excited to move forward with this expansion, enabling our company to continue meeting the needs of our current customers, as well as grow and serve new audiences."

A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Aug. 2 at the new site location and construction is expected to be completed in summer 2019.

For more information, visit www.gaiaherbs.com.