JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. — Major investments are underway in Southern Indiana from renovating an entire park to a business bringing in nearly 200 jobs.
A sports and active nutrition company is making its home base southern Indiana, One Southern Indiana announced on Thursday.
1440 Foods is bringing its main manufacturing operations to Jeffersonville.
It will be located at 301 Salem Road in the River Ridge Commerce Center.
"The opening of the Jeffersonville location is a significant milestone in our plan to make protein-rich snacking options accessible to as many people as possible,” Alexandre Médicis, chairman of the board for 1440 Foods, said. “We considered several locations but found that Jeffersonville was perfect due to its proximity to major transportation channels and availability of a skilled and ready workforce. We look forward to becoming part of the Jeffersonville community, and we’re eager to expand our fantastic team in the coming months.”
1440 Foods mission is to "energize people to unleash their potential with a focused portfolio of accessible, great-tasting health and wellness brands." Some items they sell include Pure Protein nutrition bars, Body Fortress high efficacy protein powders and MET-Rx high-performance meal replacements. These items can be purchased online at Amazon or in person at a wide range of grocery stores or pharmacies.
The company will invest more than $60 million. The funds will go toward improvements to the existing building and new machinery and equipment.
Officials said 1440 Foods has already started hiring for leadership and administrative roles for the facility. The jobs that are currently available are posted online here. They will start hiring roles for team leads, material handlers, packers, line operators, and more positions later this year.
The release said wages will range from $18.50 to $33 an hour depending on position, skill and experience. All employees will be offered benefits and will be able to participate in the company's annual bonus program.
“The City of Jeffersonville is excited that 1440 Foods has chosen the River Ridge Commerce Center as the location for their newest state-of-art manufacturing facility,” Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore said. “This significant investment is a great addition to our growing network of food and beverage industry partners, and we are confident they will find long-term success...”
On Thursday, crews were in the process of repainting the future site of 1440 Foods as they prepare for their upcoming groundbreaking event. One Southern Indiana took part in the process of getting the company to the River Ridge Commerce Center.
A statement from the president & CEO of One Southern Indiana Lance Allison said, "One Southern Indiana is proud to have collaborated with River Ridge Development Authority and America Place to assist 1440 Foods with finding a location for their newest operations. We are excited to grow the food and beverage industry for Southern Indiana, and 1440 Foods will be a great addition to the region."
1440 Foods is expected to begin production in 2025. The groundbreaking is scheduled for Wednesday, May 22, at 3:30 p.m.
Another investment currently under construction since the end of last year are renovations to the Lottie Oglesby Park. The $4.5 million project will bring in 16 pickleball courts, a new playground, walking trail, baseball/softball park, a pavilion and new restrooms.
Moore said the pickleball courts could put Jeffersonville on the map for future tournaments.
"I think we've added 120 parking spots," Moore said. "Whether you're a pickleball ace, or you're just looking for some green space to take a nice walk. Lottie Oglesby Park is just what you're looking for."
It's part of the many changes coming to the area. Moore said investments in Jeffersonville continue to roll in.
"We had the new announcement from Meta just a few months back," Moore said. "An $800,000,000 investment in Canadian Solar. Another huge company with great paying jobs. I believe they're going to hire 150 engineers. It's great to be across the river from Louisville, Kentucky. but I think internationally people know where Jeffersonville, Indiana is and we're attracting a whole lot of good paying jobs."
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