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New York-based 1440 Foods, which owns a portfolio of sports and active nutrition brands, will relocate its primary manufacturing operations to Jeffersonville, One Southern Indiana announced Thursday.
The company plans to invest $60 million to open a store in the River Ridge Commerce Center, creating nearly 200 jobs.
The investment will support new machinery and equipment as well as upgrades to the existing building, which was previously home to Illinois-based Enjoy Life Foods.
One Southern Indiana, the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties, said in a news release that 1440 Foods has entered into a long-term lease for the facility, but the specifics of the lease are unclear. Details regarding the conditions have not been disclosed.
1440 Foods’ portfolio includes popular brands such as Pure Protein Nutrition Bars, Body Fortress Protein Powder, and MET-Rx Meal Replacements.
“The opening of the Jeffersonville store is an important milestone in our plan to make protein-rich snack options available to as many people as possible,” Alexandre Medici, chairman of the 1440 Foods Board of Directors, said in a release. ”. “We considered several locations, but found that Jeffersonville was the best choice due to its proximity to major transportation routes and availability of a skilled and responsive workforce.”
The company has begun hiring leadership and management positions at the new location, with plans to begin hiring later this year for a variety of production positions, including team leaders, material handlers, packers and line operators.
Pay for these jobs will range from $18.50 to $33 an hour, depending on the position, the company said.
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation has committed to provide up to $3.7 million in incentive-based tax credits, up to $500,000 in training grants, and up to $200,000 in manufacturing readiness grants for this project. . 1440 Foods will not be eligible to apply for incentives until local residents are hired for new jobs.
“The City of Jeffersonville is thrilled that 1440 Foods has chosen the River Ridge Commerce Center as the site for its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility,” said Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore. “This significant investment is a great addition to our growing network of food and drink industry partners and we are confident that by employing 200 local residents, we will position them for long-term success.
The company plans to begin production in Jeffersonville next year. Officials plan to hold a groundbreaking event on May 22nd.
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