Florala’s economy looks to improve, thanks to Q.U.I.C.K., whose owner confirmed Tuesday his company is looking to increase its workforce by nearly 30 percent as the result of a $28 million contract with the U.S. Navy.

Owner Mike Pickron said it is the second year of a five-year direct contract awarded by the U.S. government to manufacture uniforms for the U.S. Navy.

Awarded in April 2008, the contract allowed Pickron to expand his nearly 100 employee staff by almost 50; however an increasing demand for the uniforms has prompted Pickron to seek an additional 25-30 employees.

“We are always trying to hire — all year long,” Pickron said. “Now is the time, if you need a job in Florala, to come in and apply.”

The five-year contract’s estimated maximum value is $28 million and allows the government the option to invoke the contract annually.

“Depending on their needs, the government has the option to opt out of the contract,” he said. “So after year one, if they still need uniforms, the company is given the go-ahead for year two, then three and so on. Typically, these five-year contracts run their course.”

Incorporated in September 2000, Q.U.I.C.K. started operations in the commercial apparel business. In 2003, they moved into the military uniform business as a sub-contractor. Through 2007, Q.U.I.C.K., as a sub-contractor, had produced more than 700,000 uniform items for the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corp, U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Customs.

Florala Mayor Robert Williamson said he was thrilled to hear of about the creation of new jobs in the city.

“There are definitely people here who need jobs and I’m happy that (Pickron) is able to fill that need,” Williamson said.

When asked what is expected to happen at the end of the five years, Pickron said he expects his company to be doing what it does best — making commercial apparel.

“Of course, we hope to be working on something else, if not the same thing at the end of the five years,” Pickron said. “The government is not going to stop needing uniforms at the end of this contract, so I hope we’re lucky enough to be chosen to participate in another program.”

Interested applicants are not required to have any experience, but it is preferred, Pickron said. The company does offer on-the-job training.

Anyone interested in applying is asked to call 334-858-5355 for more information.