50+ jobs coming to Fort Payne area as pipe manufacturer breaks ground on new facility
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Fratco had been eyeing an expansion for quite some time but it wasn’t until they stepped foot into Fort Payne when the vision came together.
The corrugated plastic pipe manufacturing company officially broke ground on a new state-of-the-art production facility in Fort Payne this week.
“Fratco’s decision to put down roots in Fort Payne is another strong endorsement of Alabama’s ability to support world-class manufacturers. This project highlights the teamwork that makes our state stand out — from local leaders in DeKalb County to our workforce partners at AIDT. Alabama is proud to welcome Fratco to our growing network of innovative manufacturers, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they’ll make in this community for years to come.”
Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce
Keep reading to learn more about the new facility + why the Indiana-based company chose Fort Payne as its next home.
Fratco pipe plant
The 42,000-square-foot facility is being custom-built to optimize efficiency, flow and scalability.
Initial operations are expected to produce single- and double-wall corrugated pipe ranging from 3 to 18 inches in diameter, with plans to expand capacity up to 48 inches in future phases.
The Alabama Department of Commerce says the move will create 50-60 new jobs in manufacturing, logistics and administration in the area.
“Their work will directly change the lives of many families in our region, and the ripple effect on our economy will last for generations.”
Brett Johnson, executive director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority
The new facility in Fort Payne marks Fratco’s first ground-up plant in the Southeast, positioning the company to meet growing demand across the region.
Why Fort Payne?
The decision followed an extensive multi-state site selection process, ultimately landing in DeKalb County for its skilled workforce, infrastructure advantages and exceptional community support.
“DeKalb County rolled out the red carpet. From local officials to community leaders, everyone worked tirelessly to make this happen. It’s a perfect example of local collaboration driving regional success.”
Bill Champion, Fratco’s chief operating officer
Company leaders said Fort Payne offered the ideal combination of location, logistics and partnership.
The project came together through collaboration with the City of Fort Payne, the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority, Commerce and AIDT, under the state’s new, competitive economic development framework.
“The City of Fort Payne is proud to see this project come out of the ground as we continue to diversify Fort Payne’s industrial base.”
Brian Baine, Fort Payne Mayor
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