Mavidon, a medical device and contract packaging manufacturer, is expanding its operations in Henderson County through a $6 million investment at the historic Oriole Mill property. The project will create 28 new jobs with average annual wages exceeding $50,000 and marks the company’s second expansion since locating in Henderson County in 2020.
Founded in 1986, Mavidon specializes in liquid packaging manufacturing, medical devices, and contract packaging services. The company’s continued growth reflects the strength of Henderson County’s manufacturing sector and reinforces Western North Carolina’s reputation as a competitive location for industrial investment.
“We quickly grew out of our current facility after a recent expansion, and we especially liked that the Oriole Mill is centrally located. We’ve put a lot of effort and funds into revitalizing the historic property and building.”
Tim Carroll, owner of Mavidon
In addition to purchasing the building, Mavidon has invested approximately $2.4 million in facility improvements and an additional $2 million in production expansion. These investments introduce new technology, innovation, and operational efficiencies that will strengthen the company’s long-term competitiveness and ability to serve customers.
According to historical documentation, the large two-story industrial building at 701 Oriole Drive was constructed in 1940 and contains nearly 80,000 square feet of conditioned space. Originally operating as a food processing and distribution center, the facility’s durable construction and rail access made it ideally suited for industrial operations. In its earliest-known use as Skyland Processing Corporation, the property served as a distribution hub for local agricultural products, particularly apples.
In 1952, Select Foods purchased the building and operated distribution services for the S & W Cafeteria chain and other customers through 1985. Subsequent occupants included Hydyne and Wine Master (1987), Asheville Packing Company (1992–2000), and Mountain Rug Mills (2000–2005). By 2006, the facility had become home to Oriole Mill, a textile manufacturer known for producing luxury Jacquard and Dobby woven fabrics. Oriole Mill’s craftsmanship gained national recognition, including coverage in The New York Times, before the company ultimately closed in 2020 amid challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“While economic development often receives the most attention when a new company chooses to locate in our community, the growth of existing industry is one of the strongest indicators of a healthy local economy,” said John Bryant, Board Chair of the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development. “We are excited to see Mavidon’s continued investment in Henderson County, the creation of new manufacturing jobs, and the revitalization of a historic industrial property that reflects the resilience and strength of our community.”
To learn more about Mavidon, visit www.mavidon.com.
Historical photos courtesy of: Baker-Barber Collection; Community Foundation of Henderson County; Henderson County Public Library