RANDOLPH COUNTY – The Randolph County Economic Development Corp. unveiled its 2009 annual report Wednesday, highlighting more than $15,415,300 in new and expanded industrial investment and the creation of 402 new jobs.

The EDC said nine companies across the county reported new investment during the year, while 19 companies announced new jobs associated with locations or expansions in Randolph’s communities. New job creation will generate more than $12,082,512 in annual income through direct employment, the EDC reported. The results are a 66 percent increase in new jobs over last year’s totals and a 53 percent decline from 2008 investment numbers.

“We are thrilled to share the good news about our community’s job creation and business growth during a very tough economic recession. Economic development is the solution to our economic challenges,” said Dale Lambert, EDC chairman and executive vice president of Randolph Electric Membership Corp.

The report cited growth in four major business sectors that include green jobs, legacy industries, advanced manufacturing and small businesses.

The list of companies includes environmental services firm Garco’s expansion to a second facility in Asheboro to support growth in industrial service, recycling and alternative energy. Fox Apparel expanded into a former Hanesbrand facility in Asheboro and created more than 40 new jobs to produce uniforms for U.S. Armed Forces and public safety workers. Furnishings companies Stickley and Trinity Furniture announced job growth and expansion and Malt-O-Meal Cereal Company celebrated the grand opening of its new cereal manufacturing operation.

Also in 2009, the EDC made more than 204 visits to existing businesses and industries and responded to 79 company-specific projects and referrals. Announced projects impacted 587,143 square feet of industrial space with new users and helped to secure $395,000 in grants.

The EDC Web site, www.rcedc.com, was redesigned with new features and a more user-friendly layout. In 2009, the EDC unveiled a new logo and brand as “The Heart of North Carolina’s Economic Future.”