CITE Armored is increasing its presence in Mississippi by locating a van production operation in Batesville. The $2.3 million investment should create 30 jobs by the end of 2021. The company cited additional military contracts as the reason for the expansion.
“Mississippi is well known around the globe for our industry-leading automotive companies, including those like CITE Armored that manufacture top-quality, sturdy vehicles for our military and allies around the world, as well as domestic operations,” said Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves. “The expansion of CITE Armored into Batesville reinforces Mississippi’s position as a prime location for these companies to thrive and create jobs, and I wish the CITE Armored team continued growth and success in our great state.”
CITE Armored, located in Holly Springs, manufactures and services armored cars, SWAT vehicles and supply vehicles for organizations throughout the U.S. and worldwide. The company is moving its armored van production to the former Serta building in Batesville, while maintaining the production of its other armored vehicles in Holly Springs.
“CITE is excited to be opening our second location in Batesville. We feel confident that Batesville will provide a strong strategic advantage in fulfilling our customer needs,” said Teresa Hubbard, CEO and president of CITE.
CITE Armored qualifies for the Advantage Jobs Rebate Program, which provides a rebate to eligible businesses that create new jobs that exceed the average annual wage of the state or county in which the company locates or expands. Panola County, the city of Batesville, the Panola Partnership and TVA are also assisting with the project.
The company, which was founded in 2002 by Hubbard and Ken Russell, senior vice president of operations for CITE, manufactures all types of armored vehicles, from cars to vans to SUVs and specialized vehicles like armored bank trucks and SWAT vehicles. With its own engineering and design departments, the company builds vehicles from the ground up, tailored specifically to meet its customers’ needs. The company also offers armored vehicle repairs and parts.
