The City of Vineland has been recognized as a “Top Five” location for Food Processing and Production by Expansion Solutions magazine as part of their 2016 Awards of Excellence. The announcement was made in the magazine’s November/December edition distributed the first week in December. The magazine’s editorial staff also announced selections in six additional categories including Advanced Manufacturing, Aviation/Aerospace, Inland Ports, Logistics, Ports, and Warehouse/Distribution.
The 10th Annual Awards of Excellence recognize locations and economic development organizations that have demonstrated progress in business retention, expansion, and relocation. Vineland was the only New Jersey community or development organization recognized in any of the seven categories. Other locations that were recognized along with Vineland in the Food Processing category included Jerome, Idaho; Windsor, Ontario, Canada; Maricopa, Arizona; and Oswego, New York.
“Locations and organizations were chosen because of the support systems they offer to businesses, recent activity, and potential growth that can be created in each area,” said Expansion Solutions spokeswoman Nicole Cornett. “Strategic locations, pro-business climates, investments made in improving infrastructure, and the availability of buildings and sites were also among the deciding factors in choosing these locations.”
“The Food Production and Processing industry in Vineland, which includes international brands such as Hanover Foods, Rich Products, Archer Daniels Midland, and the Argo Merchants Group, is a very important part of our local economy,” said Economic Development Director Sandy Forosisky. “We understand business retention and development is a collaborative effort. Whether it is an existing company looking to expand, someone looking to relocate here, or a brand new start-up, we are excited to be their partner and will do all we can to help their business succeed.”
In fact, the city has seen new operations move in and a number of existing expansions in the food processing and cold storage segments over the last two years including Bridor USA, Townsend Farms, AdvancePierre Foods (formally Allied Steaks), Mamacita Foods, Lucca Freezer & Cold Storage, Safeway Fresh Foods, First Choice Freezer & Cold Storage, RLS Logistics, and Davy Cold Storage. “Because the city has sustained the infrastructure necessary to support development and changing community needs, I believe Vineland is positioned for continued growth in these two sectors, along with the scientific glass and healthcare sectors,” Forosisky said.
“We all should take pride in our economic development team in earning this award designation as they have worked hard to get our community’s positive economic development message out to corporate decision-makers,” said Vineland City Council President and Mayor-elect Anthony Fanucci. “Vineland truly does have a lot to offer in terms of location, municipal infrastructure, state and local incentives, and very competitive operating costs, all of which are necessary ingredients for a healthy and profitable business environment.”
“This acknowledgment is important because it recognizes our recent success, showcases our enormous potential, and can serve as a source of motivation for the entire community,” Fanucci continued. “However, we cannot rest on our laurels. We must recognize the challenges that we face, and then identify and mobilize public and private resources in support of a common vision to grow our tax base.”
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