By DOUG SCHMITZ Iowa Correspondent
MORRISTOWN, Tenn. – One of the leading producers of organic, pasture-raised eggs is investing $30.8 million to establish its first manufacturing operations in Morristown, Tenn., in Hamblen County, according to company and state officials. “We are excited to locate this new manufacturing business here in Morristown, and to join this community as an employer, investor, property owner, and corporate citizen,” said Jordan Czeizler, CEO of Handsome Brook Farms and HBF Development, LLC, who joined Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and Stuart McWhorter, Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development commissioner, in an Oct. 7 announcement. “As we researched possible locations across several states, we kept coming back to the favorable environment created by the local, regional, TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority), and state officials here in Tennessee, and in Morristown,” Czeizler added. “We look forward to growing our business here in this community, and sincerely appreciate the support and welcome that we have received.” Established in 2007, Franklin, N.Y.-based Handsome Brook Farms is a leading producer of organic, pasture-raised eggs, relying on its network of small family farms to bring fresh, organic eggs to grocery stores across the country. The project is expected to generate 140 new jobs in an existing facility on Technology Way, which will be modernized to produce specialty hard-cooked eggs, and related products. “Companies are moving to Tennessee in record numbers because of our strong business climate and unmatched workforce,” Gov. Lee said. “I thank the members of Handsome Brook Farms for their decision to create 140 new jobs for Tennesseans in Hamblen County, and welcome this company to the Volunteer State.” “Tennessee’s agriculture industry plays a vital role in our state’s economy, and we are excited that the members of Handsome Brook Farms have made the decision to invest in Morristown,” McWhorter said. “We believe this company will strengthen one of our state’s most valuable industries and find great success in Hamblen County.” Morristown Mayor Gary Chesney said, “Morristown is home to many diverse industries, and we are proud to welcome HBF Development, LLC, to our city. |