February 27, 2024 — An important member of Morristown’s industrial network announced a $27 million expansion to its Morristown facility on Monday.
Rich’s, a global family-owned food company will create 51 new manufacturing jobs in Hamblen County, bringing its total headcount throughout Tennessee to nearly 1,400 people.
“Tennessee is shaped by companies like Rich’s that choose to invest in our state. I thank this family-owned and operated brand for its commitment to creating greater opportunity for our skilled workforce and look forward to seeing the positive impact these jobs have on the quality of life in Morristown and Hamblen County,: said Tennessee Governor Bill Lee.
” We continue to invest heavily in our U.S. manufacturing footprint to create unparalleled value for our customers and opportunities for our people,” said Kevin Spratt, president, U.S. Canada Region, Rich Products. “As a proud member of the Tennessee community for nearly 50 years, we’re excited about what this expansion project will do for our business and the region. Not only are we expanding our team and creating jobs, but we’re adding production capacity to support our cake and cupcake business, which has seen a significant influx in demand. It is a true win-win for the community, our customers and consumers as a whole.”
The expansion of Rich’s Morristown facility will add 2,400 square feet of space, which will directly support enhanced production of its growing bakery business, serving national and regional grocery and club retailers.
Morristown Mayor Gary Chesney and R. Jack Fishman, chairman of the Industrial Development Board said Rich’s is an important part of Morristown’s industrial community and has provided good jobs for local citizens for many years. “Morristown’s leadership applauds Rich’s and its expansion plans, which will continue to boost the quality of life here,” they said.
The investment in new automated equipment will enhance the value of Rich’s products and allow them to remain competitive as they grow forward. The project is expected to be complete in September 2024 with hiring slated to begin in June of this year.
“Congratulations to Rich’s on its success in our state and its decision to expand operations in Morristown. The jobs and investment that the company is bringing to our community area a testament to the business-friendly environment we have in Hamblen County,” said Senator Steve Southerland, R-Morristown.
Rich’s was founded in 1945, and operates across more than 100 countries, employing approximately 13,000 people worldwide. The food company has a strong footprint across Tennessee, operating a network of manufacturing facilities, including two plants in Morristown, which currently employ 650 associates.
“More than 40,000 Tennesseans are employed by food and agriculture companies, and Rich’s investment in our state will directly support this growing sector. We are proud to have Rich’s in Tennessee and believe Morristown and Hamblen County will continue to be the ideal location for this company’s success.” -TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter.
“TVA and Morristown Utility Systems congratulate Rich’s on its decision to expand operations and create new jobs in Hamblen County. We are proud to partner with the Morristown Chamber and the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development to support companies, like Rich’s, that are committed to continued growth in the region, and we celebrate this announcement together.” -John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of economic development.
“It’s always great to hear a business with existing operations in Morristown is doing well. Rich’s expansion will create more that 50 jobs and boost our community’s economy. I thank the company for choosing Hamblen County to do business and I look forward to its continued success,” said STate Rep. Rich Eldridge, R-Morristown.
Source: Citizen Tribune
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