U.S. Smokeless tobacco is investing $118 million and plans to create 42 new jobs with an expansion in Hopkinsville.
A new 230,000-square-foot facility will be used to process aged tobacco. U.S. Smokeless also plans to add approximately 80,000 square feet to its existing tobacco fermentation plant in Hopkinsville.
Both facilities in Christian County will be operational in 2016.
Gov. Steve Beshear says the company has found "great success" in the state, which is known for growing and consuming tobacco.
“U.S. Smokeless Tobacco’s investment will make a significant economic impact on the state and bring more jobs to the region,” said Beshear. “The company has found great success in the Commonwealth for decades, and this expansion is further proof that Kentucky is a great place to grow a business.”
USSTC President and CEOBrian Quigley says his company made sure to look at Kentucky before expanding.
“As our smokeless tobacco business continues to grow, U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company is looking toward our future,” said Quigley,. “We are pleased to continue investing in Kentucky and to partner with the state for this project. This new facility will complement existing production, provide jobs and investment in the local economy, and will offer additional expansion opportunities as business grows in the future.”
U.S. Smokeless is the leading producer and marketer of moist smokeless tobacco.