Gov. Kay Ivey on Thursday announced that The J.M. Smucker Co. plans to construct a new manufacturing facility and distribution center in Jefferson County.
The three-phase $1.1 billion project, which will support production of Smucker’s Uncrustables frozen sandwiches, is projected to create up to 750 jobs in the Birmingham area community of McCalla. The new manufacturing facility will be located in the JeffMet Industrial Complex.
Ivey asserted that Smucker’s investment in the state proved the success of Alabama’s business-friendly economic policies.
“Because The J.M Smucker Co. is one of America’s leading consumer packaged goods companies in the food sector, its decision to make a significant investment in Jefferson County represents a powerful endorsement of Alabama’s inviting business environment,” proclaimed Ivey. “Not only will the Company’s growth project create a large number of jobs in McCalla, but it will also permit us to build a long-standing relationship with a top consumer brand.”
According to the announcement, the facility’s construction is expected to begin no later than January 2022, with production beginning in 2025.
Mark Smucker, president and CEO of the food manufacturing company, praised the Smucker workforce and indicated that the company’s investment plans will allow for future growth potential.
“Our Smucker’s Uncrustables brand continues to be one of the fastest growing in our portfolio and in the food sector more broadly,” advised Smucker. “We are proud of the success the brand has achieved, due in no small part to the tremendous efforts of our employees, and we’re excited to take advantage of the opportunities and growth our investments will enable.”
He added, “We appreciate the support we have received from the state of Alabama and Jefferson County officials, and we look forward to being a part of the greater Birmingham community.”
Big News!! @JMSmuckerCo is building a facility in the Birmingham region that will add 750 high-wage jobs and a capital investment of $1.1 billion!
We're so excited to announce this and begin working with Smucker's!#BHMHasMore #Smuckers
?https://t.co/xvMUe3fhvJ pic.twitter.com/u4hQg7oEDD
— Birmingham Business Alliance (@BHMBizAlliance) November 18, 2021
The new facility, along with the company’s expansion of its Longmont, Colorado location, will support Smucker’s goal to more than double its current production capacity. According to the company, the Uncrustables brand is expected to reach $1 billion in annual net sales over the next five years.
Alabama Department of Commerce secretary Greg Canfield expressed excitement over the fact that one of Smucker’s most prominent brands will be produced in the Yellowhammer State.
“Alabama plays host to an impressive roster of world-class corporate partners, and we are excited to add The J.M. Smucker Co. to this lineup,” stated Canfield. “Smucker’s products have long been a favorite in kitchens across America, and it’s great to know that the company’s popular Uncrustable sandwiches will be made right here in Alabama.”
Smucker’s financial investment is contingent upon approval of tax and business incentives as well as the closing of the property purchase where the facility will be constructed, the company noted.
Commissioner Steve Ammons, chair of the Jefferson County Economic Development Committee, hailed the county’s ability to land one of the most prestigious names in the food manufacturing industry.
“Smucker’s is a household name, and we are proud they have selected Jefferson County for their next manufacturing facility,” declared Ammons. “It’s important for us to recognize the previous Commission and their forethought to add acreage to the Jeffmet Industrial Complex. The McCalla area is hot right now due to useable land availability, interstate access and productive growth potential. We are excited for the continued momentum of job creation for the citizens of Jefferson County and the region as a whole.”
Birmingham Business Alliance CEO Ron Kitchens advised that Smucker’s investment represents one of the largest economic development projects in Jefferson County’s recent history, in terms of both capital investment and job creation.
“It is a strategic move for Smucker to leverage Birmingham’s strong distribution and logistics network, central location in the Southeast and a shovel-ready site to seize an opportunity for one of its fastest-growing brands,” stated Kitchens. “We are very excited to welcome them to Birmingham and Jefferson County and thank them for bringing jobs to our community that will change lives for the better.”
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
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