Corky’s to expand Memphis barbecue manufacturing facility, add jobs
One of Memphis’ most well-known barbecue joints is expanding its manufacturing operations.
On Wednesday, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee announced the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) is supporting a $4 million investment for Corky’s Food Manufacturing LLC at its manufacturing facility at 3006 Fleetbrook Drive in Memphis.
Corky’s Food Manufacturing makes and distributes the retail food products of Corky’s BBQ.
The investment will help add 28 new jobs and will help finance operational improvements including a freezer expansion, more smokers and an automation improvement for the company’s process and packing rooms, according to the news release.
“This expansion not only highlights Corky’s commitment to Tennessee but also reaffirms Tennessee’s position as a premier destination for thriving businesses,” TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. Mcwhorter said in a statement. “We’re proud to support Corky’s growth and look forward to the continued success it will bring to Shelby County and beyond.”
Dan Pelts opened the first Corky’s location in 1984. The Pelts family sold the franchise in September 2021 to a group led by longtime employee Jimmy Stovall. Today the franchise operates eight locations throughout Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi.
Stovall, owner and CEO of Corky’s
BBQ, said the company is excited for growth and opportunities to expand its line of barbecue items across the nation.
“We’re dedicated to delivering our legendary barbecue and top-notch service not only in our restaurants but also to customers everywhere through grocery chains, food service and direct-toconsumer partners,” he said in a statement. “The demand for our authentic Corky’s hickory-smoked barbecue has us fired up to increase our manufacturing operations and meet the ever-growing appetite for our assortment of barbecue. With each new step, we are proud of our Memphis roots and strengthening our ties to the community.”
Memphis Mayor Paul Young said Corky’s BBQ is “synonymous with entrepreneurship and innovation.”
“As Corky’s expands its reach in the food service and retail sectors, it is a testament to our city’s barbecue legacy known across the globe,” he said in a statement. “The company’s commitment to quality and growth exemplifies the enduring legacy of Memphis as a hub for business excellence.”
Since 2019, the TNECD has helped support more than 50 economic development projects in Shelby County, more than any other county in the state. Those investments have resulted in more than 5,000 jobs and $1.1 billion in capital investment.
Neil Strebig is a journalist with The Commercial Appeal. He can be reached at neil.strebig@commercialappeal.com , 901-426-0679 or via X: @neilstrebig.