Harmony House Foods, a leading provider of dehydrated foods to backpackers, will open a new facility at the Macon County Business Development Center.

Founded in 2005 in Eastern North Carolina, the company markets dehydrated meals primarily to outdoor adventurers with a strong on-line business and as a supplier to major outdoor retailers like REI. In 2007, Backpacker Magazine awarded Harmony House with its “Editors’ Choice” award, gaining the company national recognition.

Harmony House will occupy approximately 7,500 square feet of the county’s Business Development Center and is expected to initially employ between five and seven employees. Operations are scheduled to begin in September. Macon County Commissioners approved the lease agreement Tuesday evening.

“With their ties to the outdoor recreation industry, we think they are perfect fit for our area,” said County Commissioner Chairman Kevin Corbin.