Gov. Andy Beshear has announced a significant development in Kentucky's manufacturing sector with ValorFlex Packaging of Kentucky planning to establish an advanced manufacturing facility in Bowling Green. The initiative involves a $23.4 million investment and is expected to create 82 jobs.
"Team Kentucky’s manufacturing industry continues to boost our red-hot economy," said Gov. Beshear, highlighting the state's appeal as a business-friendly environment with a strong workforce. He welcomed ValorFlex, expressing optimism about the company's future success in its "New Kentucky Home."
The new facility will focus on packaging innovation and enhance ValorFlex’s manufacturing capabilities by housing advanced equipment like flexographic printing presses and pouch-making machines.
"This is more than an expansion – it’s a homecoming," stated Thomas Hazlette, president and CEO of ValorFlex Packaging. He emphasized Bowling Green's alignment with the company’s values such as community focus and workforce dedication.
ValorFlex Holdings, based in Nashville, Tennessee, operates through its subsidiary ValorFlex Packaging of Kentucky Inc., specializing in flexible packaging solutions for various sectors including food and beverage.
Local leaders expressed enthusiasm about the company's move to Warren County. Judge/Executive Doug Gorman remarked on the company's fit for the local community: "We are honored to welcome ValorFlex to Warren County." Mayor Todd Alcott echoed this sentiment, praising the project as a testament to local spirit and potential for growth.
Ron Bunch from the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce noted that "ValorFlex is a fantastic addition" that will diversify South Central Kentucky's manufacturing sector further.
This investment contributes to what Gov. Beshear described as "the best five-year period for economic growth in state history." His administration has seen nearly 1,200 private-sector projects totaling approximately $36 billion in investments since he took office.
Kentucky has also achieved major milestones under his leadership, such as becoming a hub for electric vehicle battery production and securing large-scale economic development projects across various counties.
To support this new venture, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) approved incentives under programs designed to encourage job creation and investment within the state. These include up to $2 million in tax incentives based on job creation targets over 15 years and additional incentives through KEIA for construction-related costs.
In summary, ValorFlex's establishment in Bowling Green marks another chapter of economic progress under Gov. Beshear's tenure, promising growth opportunities for both businesses and communities within Kentucky.