SmithFoods Richmond Inc., a division of SmithFoods Inc., has plans to expand by adding a new production line to increase the plant’s capacity to produce dairy and non-dairy products with extended shelf life. Plans at the facility, located at 1590 NW11th Street, include an investment of $9 million and creation of 34 new, full-time jobs paying an average hourly wage of $22 by the end of 2022. “This expansion is the result of a successful collaboration with our customers, our partners and our community,” said Jose Casiano, Plant Manager. “It is pivotal for future growth.”

The company will receive a $93,000 Economic Development Income Tax (EDIT) Grant from the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Wayne County, Indiana. The EDIT grant will be used to offset the cost of new equipment, construction, and training for new and incumbent employees. Mayor Dave Snow says Richmond is fortunate to have a company like SmithFoods investing in the community. “SmithFoods Richmond has roots in our community that span nearly one hundred years, providing quality manufacturing and meaningful jobs for generations of hardworking Hoosiers. Richmond is fortunate to have this continued investment, and we look forward to many more years of mutual success.” The request for EDIT funds will go before the Wayne County Commissioners for their consideration. In addition, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered SmithFoods Richmond Inc. up to $275,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company’s job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired.

“Indiana has such a rich history of agriculture, and our industry strength combined with our 21^st century workforce allows companies like SmithFoods to grow,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger. “We’re extremely grateful for the company’s commitment to Indiana and to Richmond, and we’ll continue to cultivate a business environment where job creators like SmithFoods can thrive for generations to come.”

SmithFoods Inc. is a national food manufacturer and distributor of dairy and non-dairy fluid products including milk, almond milk, sour cream, cottage cheese, dips, mix and ice cream, among other products. The company serves national, regional and local customers through a significant footprint covering the Midwest and Eastern United States. Prior to becoming Smith Foods, Inc. it was Wayne Dairy which began operation in Richmond in 1921.

About SmithFoods, Inc.

SmithFoods Inc.is headquartered in Orrville, Ohio and has production facilities in Orrville; St. Louis, Missouri; and Richmond, Indiana. In 1994, the company purchased Wayne Dairy in Richmond. The purchase allowed SmithFoods to extend the shelf life of their products through increased efficiency in distribution. The company sources milk from the region, including a dairy farm in Wayne County, Indiana. The company provides private label, food service, and contract manufacturing services to its customers. Learn more at https://smithfoods.com/