The anticipation is mounting as construction of a state-of-the-art Smucker’s Uncrustables manufacturing facility in Alabama is set to commence by January 2022, with production expected to kick off in 2025. This groundbreaking development aims to satisfy the soaring demand for the brand’s frozen handheld sandwiches and further propel its remarkable growth trajectory.
Key Takeaways
A Testament to Success
Boasting an impressive portfolio and recognized as one of the fastest-growing brands in the food sector, Smucker’s Uncrustables continues to captivate consumers worldwide. Mark Smucker, the president and CEO of The J.M. Smucker Co., attributes this success to the unwavering commitment of their employees. He acknowledges the significant contributions made by their talented workforce and expresses excitement about the opportunities and growth that this investment will unlock.
Amidst the company’s rapid expansion, Smucker’s lauds the support received from the State of Alabama and Jefferson County officials. They eagerly anticipate becoming an integral part of the thriving Birmingham community.
Charting a Path for Growth
At the heart of this growth strategy lies the construction of a new manufacturing facility at the JeffMet Industrial Complex, which will become Smucker’s third facility exclusively dedicated to the production of Uncrustables sandwiches. The existing facilities in Scottsville, Kentucky, and Longmont, Colorado have already played a pivotal role in driving the brand’s immense success. In fact, the sustained demand for these frozen delicacies has propelled the brand to achieve annual net sales of approximately $500 million, with double-digit growth recorded for the past ten years.
Through this ambitious venture, Smucker’s aims to more than double its current production capacity. With the completion of the expansion at the Longmont location and the establishment of the Alabama facility, the company anticipates achieving an estimated $1 billion in annual net sales for the Uncrustables brand within the next five years.
Alabama’s Warm Welcome
Greg Canfield, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, proudly welcomes The J.M. Smucker Co. to an esteemed roster of world-class corporate partners. Acknowledging the deep-rooted popularity of Smucker’s products, Canfield expresses delight that the production of their beloved Uncrustables sandwiches will now take place within Alabama’s borders.
A Boost to the Local Economy
As the construction and production of the facility unfold over several years, Smucker’s expects to create up to 750 jobs in Alabama. Financial investments and job opportunities will align with each phase of development, pending approval of tax and business incentives, as well as the finalization of the property purchase for the location.
Commissioner Steve Ammons, chair of the Jefferson County Economic Development Committee, recognizes the significance of Smucker’s selection of Jefferson County as their next manufacturing hub. He credits the previous Commission for their foresight in expanding the acreage of the JeffMet Industrial Complex. The McCalla area’s coveted attributes, such as accessible land, excellent interstate access, and exceptional growth potential, have made it an appealing destination. Ammons eagerly anticipates the positive impact on job creation, not only for the citizens of Jefferson County but also for the region as a whole.
Birmingham’s Strategic Advantage
Ron Kitchens, CEO of the Birmingham Business Alliance, emphasizes the strategic nature of Smucker’s decision to leverage Birmingham’s robust distribution and logistics network, central location in the Southeast, and the availability of a convenient shovel-ready site. Kitchens hails this project as one of the most substantial economic development initiatives in the recent history of Jefferson County, both in terms of capital investment and job creation. He warmly welcomes Smucker’s to Birmingham and Jefferson County and expresses gratitude for their contribution in enriching the community through the creation of life-changing job opportunities.
With the unveiling of this grand endeavor, Smucker’s Uncrustables solidifies its position as a household name and promises to delight consumers for years to come.
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