A distributor of military gear and apparel has opened in Laurel Hill, county officials announced on Tuesday.

The facility — Tactical Gear Distributors — is expected to employ at least 25 people.

Tactical Gear Distributors is a leading distributor of tactical gear and performance apparel for the military, law enforcement and shooting sports retailers.

“We are happy to have additional job opportunities in Scotland County and are thankful considering our current economic climate,” said J.D. Willis, chairman of the county Board of Commissioners.

Greg Icard, Scotland County economic developer, agreed that the jobs are a welcome addition to the county.

Scotland County has the highest jobless rate in the state at 17.2 percent. June's rate has not been released.

We are very excited about this new opportunity that will bring jobs to our community," Icard said. "This is the result of a great deal of work and focus to attract additional industries to Scotland County."

Icard added that the new facility is likely an addition brought by BRAC.

"Tactical Gear Distributors is a great company that serves our men and women in uniform and we look forward to our relationship with them in the future," Icard said "Our proximity to Ft. Bragg will also continue to be a positive factor as we build upon this current success."

David Hensley, owner of Tactical Gear Distributors, attributes the move to work by the county.

“We are appreciative of the support provided by Greg Icard to locate the building and execute community support for this multi-use facility," Hensley said. "It allows us to support our business growth objectives, while providing local opportunities to revive jobs and infrastructure lost to foreign countries."