What’s happening: The largest employer in Oceana County is poised to become even larger as Peterson Farms has announced plans to expand its food processing operations. An expected $32.2 million expansion will create at least 96 new jobs at the company’s campus, which straddles the border of Shelby Township and Hart.
What’s planned: Already a marketing leader in the U.S. frozen fruit sector, Peterson Farms plans a $32.2 million expansion of its juice containerization capabilities. The company currently markets more than 150 million finished pounds of frozen fruits and 7 million gallons of apple juice/cider and juice concentrates.
Why it’s important: "This will be a great benefit for the area. Peterson Farms has repeatedly invested in the community and this project is no exception,” reads a statement from state Representative Curt VanderWall (102nd District). “Not only will this grant bring 96 new jobs to the area, but it will have an economic ripple effect on the surrounding businesses, making Shelby an even better place to live and work."
How they’re doing it: On the strength of its planned $32.2 million investment and the creation of at least 96 new jobs, the Michigan Strategic Fund has approved the Peterson Farms project for a 15-year, 100 percent State Essential Services Assessment (SESA) Exemption with an estimated value of up to $576,970 for its $26.2 million eligible investment in Eligible Personal Property.
Upward trajectory: Peterson Farms has a track record of going above and beyond for its workforce, most recently adding an after-hours medical clinic to an on-site workforce housing complex that provides housing for 225 workers and family members.
What they’re saying: “Peterson Farms is appreciative of the State of Michigan and MEDC and thanks them for their support of our growth in the food processing arena,” reads a statement from Peterson Farms COO Richard Raffaelli and CFO Mike Agosta. “We’re proud that our continued growth in manufacturing supports rural Michigan residents and contributes to Michigan’s agriculture industry.”
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