South Raleigh News

Wow Bao, an Asian street food company, has announced plans to establish a manufacturing facility in Forest City, Rutherford County, North Carolina. This venture will create 88 new jobs and represents an investment of $6.45 million. The facility marks Wow Bao’s first company-operated manufacturing site, signaling an effort to meet rising demand for its products.

Governor Josh Stein welcomed Wow Bao’s decision, describing North Carolina as a state with a "strong infrastructure and ready workforce." Stein noted the move is set to enhance the state's food industry and bring new opportunities to the locale.

Founded in 2003, Wow Bao offers a menu featuring bao, potstickers, and soup dumplings. The new facility in Forest City aims to increase production, streamline operations, and broaden the company's reach in the market. "Wow Bao is thrilled to bring our operations to Forest City," said Matt Fallon, CFO of Wow Bao. Fallon expressed excitement about contributing to the community and recognized the support from North Carolina’s administration.

According to N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, North Carolina's large manufacturing workforce and significant food and beverage industry position the state well for such expansions. “Our economic development teams will continue to provide strong support as the company expands,” Lilley added.

The range of positions available at the new facility includes maintenance engineers, production supervisors, and sanitation associates, with average salaries above the county norm. The resultant payroll impact could surpass $4.3 million annually for the region.

Wow Bao will benefit from a $180,000 performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund, aiding in its establishment in North Carolina. This fund offers financial aid to local governments to attract economic investments, contingent on the matching grant from local governments and job creation and investment targets being met.

State Senator Timothy D. Moffitt and Representative Jake Johnson both celebrated the announcement, highlighting the anticipated job creation and reinforcing the county’s food production leadership. The project is supported by various state and local entities, including the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, and the Town of Forest City.