JACKSON, Ohio — The Ohio Rail Development Commission (Rail Commission) has approved a $110,250 grant to Herr Foods, Inc., in support of the company’s new facility in Jackson, Ohio. This grant will help fund improvements to the facility’s on-site rail infrastructure as part of a significant $25 million investment by Herr Foods.
The new Jackson facility is set to enhance Herr Foods’ operations, with the grant covering the costs of tie renewal and replacement on an existing rail spur and the installation of a new private on-site concrete tub crossing. This upgrade is expected to facilitate the efficient handling of inbound raw materials and enable transloading between the Jackson and the existing Chillicothe facilities.
Herr Foods, established in 1946 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is renowned for its popular snack brands, including Herr’s, Good Natured, and Cheyenne Brand. The company, known for its potato chips, pretzels, and cheese curls, has operated a small manufacturing facility in Chillicothe since 1976.
Matthew Dietrich, Executive Director of the Rail Commission, expressed enthusiasm about the grant, stating, “Supporting the growth and expansion of Ohio businesses is always a positive development. Herr Foods’ investment in southern Ohio is a testament to their commitment to the region, and we anticipate their continued success in the state.”
Jeremiah Thomas, SVP of Manufacturing and Supply Chain at Herr Foods, added, “We are excited to collaborate with the Ohio Rail Development Commission. Having been operational in Ohio for nearly five decades, this partnership enables us to advance our operations. Ohio’s support has been instrumental in our success, and we look forward to continuing our growth here.”
The Ohio Rail Development Commission plays a vital role in supporting Ohio communities and businesses by maintaining and improving rail service. They also focus on enhancing railroad-highway grade crossings to ensure public safety.
For more information, please contact Wende Jourdan at (614) 728-9497.
