Helena Industries celebrates groundbreaking and ribbon cutting

Published 5:10 pm Friday, September 25, 2015

By BECKY CRISSMAN
becky.crissman@
cordeledispatch.com

CORDELE — Helena Industries celebrated two milestones recently; the ribbon cutting for a brand new break room, shower and locker facility for employees and the groundbreaking for a 180,000 sq ft.warehouse facility.
Briley Edwards, president of the Cordele-Crisp Chamber of Board of Directors, welcomed those in attendance for the ceremony on Wednesday, September 23.
Plant Manager Scott Braswell offered an invocation which was followed by remarks from Chairman Zack Wade of the Cordele City Commission and Chairman Clark Henderson of the Crisp County Commission. Braswell then introduced President and CEO Phil Hollis and Vice President Phil Berryman of Helena Industries.
“We are pleased to have both of them here to share in this occasion,” said Braswell.
“We want to thank Cordele,” said Hollis. “It is all about the people, not the building or the ground breaking. We hope to continue to grow in this community.”
According to Braswell the plant was built in 1968 and seen significant growth in the 90’s. Helena Industries consists of 200 acres total on both sides of Fenn Road.
Braswell said they grew out of their ability to take good care of their workforce.
“There was not enough break space, showers or lockers to accommodate our employees. Now they have a 10,000 sq ft. break room, shower and locker room facility.
“It is a pleasure to work for a company where the management appreciates and values the people that work for them and the environment they work in.”
The 180,000 sq ft. warehouse facility will give more flexibility for storage space at the plant. Berryman said it would also allow them to store items for clients through the Cordele Intermodal Services.
Braswell said it will also result in the addition of 6-10 new employees. He says they should be ready to start filling it up in August of 2016.
“We appreciate the chamber, the IDC for coming and celebrating with us and their continued support of Helena Industries,” said Braswell.
Following the ribbon cutting and groundbreaking attendees of the ceremony were invited to enjoy lunch catered by White’s Seafood.

Becky Crissman/Cordele Dispatch Helena Chemical executives, chamber members, and local officials celebrated the plant’s ribbon cutting of a new employee break room and shower facility.

Becky Crissman/Cordele Dispatch
Helena Chemical executives, chamber members, and local officials celebrated the plant’s ribbon cutting of a new employee break room and shower facility.