MP Global Products, LLC Considers New Albany for New Location

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Project Could Bring More Than 50 New Jobs to Area

NEW ALBANY, IND. (April 28, 2021) Representatives of MP Global Products, LLC, a manufacturer of recycled cardboard insulation packaging products used underneath flooring, and One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties, announced today the company will seek local incentives from the City of New Albany for its third manufacturing facility – the first outside its home state of Nebraska.  The facility under consideration for the project is located at 890 Central Court in the New Albany North Industrial Park off Hausfeldt Lane.  Should the company decide to move forward, the project plans to open by the fourth quarter of 2021, bringing an estimated 53 new jobs to the region with wages above the Floyd County average.

“For 20 years, MP Global has been on an eco-friendly mission to take what no one wants anymore and recycle it into something that provides high performance and value,” said MP Global COO Reid Borgman.  “We are problem solvers, innovators, and an eco-aware company with environmentally friendly, high-performing products – from our patented fiber acoustic floor underlayment to our patented 100 percent curbside recyclable thermal packaging products.  We have been ‘green’ before it was even fashionable. Our success is the result of the unique contributions of all our employees and business partners and we look forward to continuing our good work in New Albany.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) offered MP Global Products, LLC, up to $500,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company’s job-creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired.

“As a leader in manufacturing, Indiana is excited to welcome MP Global Products to the Hoosier State,” said Interim Indiana Secretary of Commerce Jim Staton. “As the company continues building upon 20 years of success, we look forward to supporting the company’s continued growth for years to come.”

The company will seek a property tax abatement, which allows the company to phase in its increased property taxes over time.  The tax abatement offers the company an estimated savings of more than $113,000 over the next five years. The New Albany City Council is scheduled to vote on approval of the company’s local incentives next week, with the project contingent upon the council’s approval.

“On behalf of the City of New Albany, I want to congratulate MP Global Products, LLC, on their success and thank them for considering New Albany an ideal place to grow,” said Mayor Jeff Gahan.  “The City of New Albany places a high priority on attracting manufacturing and other commerce by offering favorable tax incentives and services.  We look forward to working with MP Global Products, LLC. With the help of our Redevelopment Commission, the City Council and our strong work force, I am sure we can make New Albany the place they can be proud to call home.”

1si President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser said, “MP Global Products, LLC, would be a great addition to the regional business community, bringing more than 50 new jobs to the region.  This would result not only in increased commerce in our business community, but it also has a direct effect on the lives of the individuals who choose to work there. One Southern Indiana is looking forward to the possibility of a new location for MP Global Products, LLC, and continues to be happy to assist company leaders in achieving their immediate and future goals.”

About MP Global Products, LLC

Based out of Norfolk, Nebraska, MP Global Products has been manufacturing superior building materials since 1997. The company’s continued commitment to providing top-quality, sustainable products has afforded MP Global Products consistent growth and success in the construction industry. Today, more than ever, architects and designers specify MP Global Products materials in their residential and commercial projects.

About One Southern Indiana

One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area.

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors. Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth; Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses; Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in the initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business-friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

 

Media contacts:

Deanna Summers
Marketing Specialist and Account Manager
MP Global Products, LLC
Email:  dsummers@mpglobalproducts.com
Direct: (402) 347-1065

Wendy Dant Chesser
President and CEO
One Southern Indiana
Email:   Wendy@1si.org
Office: (812) 945-0266

J. Knipper and Company, Inc., Announces Expansion at Charlestown, Ind., Facility

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Charlestown, Ind. (February 15, 2021) – Representatives of One Southern Indiana (1si), working in partnership with the River Ridge Development Authority and J. Knipper and Company, Inc. (Knipper), announced today the expansion of the current Knipper distribution center at 1250 Patrol Road.  The expansion of this facility will consist of an additional 150,000-square-foot of space, including a refrigerator which can hold 1,500 pallets and a drive-in freezer.  The company, which provides complete supply chain services to the U.S. pharmaceutical industry and is the largest provider of samples management services, anticipates making a capital investment of $17.4 million and increasing its workforce by 38 employees by the end of 2024.

Knipper’s CEO Mike Laferrera stated, “Our mission is to work with our clients to create solutions that are strategically designed, faithfully executed, and driven by market insight and data to ensure maximum return on our clients’ investments, and ultimately to improve people’s lives. The expansion of our Charlestown, Ind., facility will help us work toward that, and we appreciate the State of Indiana, the City of Charlestown, River Ridge Commerce Center and 1si for helping us expand to meet new demands.”

The company, which established the Charlestown distribution center in 2016, was founded in 1986, and it is headquartered in Lakewood, N.J.  Known for being an integral part of the communities in which it is located, Knipper has been awarded the Clara Barton Corporate Humanitarian Award by the American Red Cross and the Corporate Citizen of the Year award by Catholic Charities for volunteer efforts by Knipper employees.

Mayor of Charlestown, Dr. Treva Hodges, said, “On behalf of the City of Charlestown, I’d like to congratulate J. Knipper and Company on their recent announcement.  It is always great news for Charlestown when a company like Knipper announces the addition of more than 35 jobs with wages 25 percent above the Clark County average.  We wish them the best of luck and stand ready to assist in any way we can.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Knipper up to $400,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company’s job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired.

“Indiana has a legacy of life sciences excellence with companies like Knipper continuing to grow in our state,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger. “Approximately 2,100 life sciences companies in Indiana employ 56,000 Hoosiers, and as a state, we’ll keep providing a top-ranked business environment so companies like Knipper have the confidence to invest in their Indiana operations and add high-quality career opportunities.”

Located between Charlestown and Jeffersonville, Ind., Knipper’s facility is situated in the River Ridge Commerce Center, a world-class 6,000-acre business and manufacturing park under development along the Ohio River, across from Louisville, Ky. Recently, the River Ridge Commerce Center reported increased employment, expanded development and generated an increase of $2.5 billion in economic output in 2019 alone — the largest output from the business park since it opened.

“We are ecstatic that Knipper has decided to expand and reinvest in its operations at the River Ridge Commerce Center. When the company opened at River Ridge, we knew it was the kind of innovative, growth-oriented employer that could thrive in a new home at River Ridge,” said Jerry Acy, executive director of the River Ridge Commerce Center. “The River Ridge Development Authority will continue to invest in infrastructure and amenities, so River Ridge remains an appealing location for Knipper and other firms serving the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.”

“Five years ago, we welcomed Knipper into the Southern Indiana business community, and this will be the company’s second expansion since the initial build in 2016.  While that kind of success is due to the hard work of Knipper’s employees and forward-thinking management, we believe choosing to locate and grow within the River Ridge Commerce Center, and the State of Indiana itself, contributed to the active growth the company has experienced. As always, 1si is happy to have played a small role in this notable achievement and looks forward to working with Knipper in the future,” said 1si President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser.

 About J. Knipper and Company, Inc.:
For 35 years, J. Knipper and Company, Inc. has been purpose-built on a strong foundation of healthcare service, support, and excellence. The largest U.S. provider of sampling distribution, Knipper also provides prescriber validation, sample accountability, web ordering solutions and third-party logistics services to the Pharmaceutical and Life Science Industries. The company has locations throughout New Jersey, Indiana, Florida, and California. For more information on J. Knipper and Company, please visit www.knipper.com.

 About One Southern Indiana:
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses thrive in the Southern Indiana and metro area.

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors. Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth; Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses; Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in the initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org

 Media Contacts:

J. Knipper and Company, Inc.
Eric Johnson
Chief Commercial Growth Office
908.447.1047
Eric.Johnson@knipper.com 

One Southern Indiana
Suzanne Ruark
Director, Marketing and Communications
suzanner@1si.org

Multi-Color Corporation Announces Plan to Expand in Scottsburg, Ind.

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Multi-Color Corporation Announces Plan to Expand in Scottsburg, Ind.

Company Looks to Grow Operations and Workforce

Scottsburg, Ind. (February 5, 2021) – Representatives of One Southern Indiana (1si), working in support of the Scott County Economic Development Corporation, and Multi-Color Corporation, a label printing company located at 2281 South U.S. Highway 31, Scottsburg, will appear before the Scottsburg City Council on Monday, February 8, 2021, to ask for a resolution in support of tax incentives for a planned expansion. The company would like to make a capital investment of $7.7 million and increase its workforce.

Multi-Color Corporation is a leader in global label solutions with more than 103 years of experience. The company supports a number of the world’s most prominent brands including leading producers of home and personal care, wine and spirits, food and beverage, healthcare and specialty consumer products.

“The City of Scottsburg is excited about Multi-Color Corporation’s current success and the possibility of the company expanding its capabilities to accommodate this new phase of its business,” said Scottsburg Mayor Terry Amick. “The capital investment of $7.7 million in its facility here is a big win for the city and the region as a whole. We look forward to working with Multi-Color Corporation on their proposal and in the years to come.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Multi-Color Corporation up to $425,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company’s job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired.

“We’re excited to support Multi-Color Corporation’s Scottsburg expansion,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger. “Being a global company, Multi-Color Corporation had a world of options to expand, but we’re grateful the company chose to expand its Indiana operations and create more career opportunities for Hoosiers.”

President and CEO of 1si Wendy Dant Chesser said, “1si is happy to be working in support of the Scott County Economic Development Corporation and Multi-Color Corporation on this exciting expansion. The fact the company is considering an expansion in Scottsburg is a good economic indicator for the city, county, and the region. 1si stands ready to assist in any way we can.”

About Multi-Color Corporation
A true global label solutions provider, Multi-Color Corporation is one of the largest label companies in the world in the following market segments: beverage, wine and spirits, food and dairy, personal care and beauty, home care and laundry, healthcare, durables and technical and automotive and chemicals.

Established in 1916 and headquartered near Cincinnati, Ohio, Multi-Color Corporation has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most awarded label printers today supporting the world’s most prominent brands. In 2016, Multi-Color celebrated its 100th year in business. For more information on Multi-Color Corporation, visit www.mcclabel.com.

About Scott County Economic Development Corporation
Representing Scott County, Indiana, it is the mission of the Scott County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) to offer the best services for thriving new and existing industries, while expanding future opportunities for Scott County residents through the jobs and benefits successful businesses and industries create. Our dedicated team is focused on helping local businesses and entrepreneurs thrive, and businesses outside of the area relocate, by providing the services they need to increase sales, add jobs and expand operations. We assist businesses with everything from keeping costs low to building or expanding multi-million-dollar facilities.

SCEDC also offers comprehensive facility location services, from initial contact through site location to future growth and expansion. In essence, we provide “one-stop shopping” for your relocation and expansion needs. For more information, visit our website at www.scottcountyin.com.

About One Southern Indiana:
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses thrive in the Southern Indiana and metro area.

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors. Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth; Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses; Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in the initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Media Contacts:
Scott County Economic Development Corporation
Terry Amick
Mayor of Scottsburg
812.722.5039
tamick@cityofscottsburg.com

One Southern Indiana
Suzanne Ruark
Director, Marketing and Communications
812.206.9050
suzanner@1si.org

IQPack, LLC, Plans Expansion of Operations in New Albany, Ind.

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

IQPack, LLC, Plans Expansion of Operations in New Albany, Ind.

Company Estimates Potential Hiring of 55 People at Four Times the Floyd County Average Wage

New Albany, Ind. (January 8, 2021) – Representatives of One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties, and IQPack, LLC, a packaging and supply-chain solutions company based in New Albany, Ind., will appear before the city redevelopment commission on January 12, 2021. The company has plans for an expansion of its current operations at 3000 Technology Avenue to accommodate a new two-year software development contract.

Company leaders will request consideration for incentives in the form of training reimbursement funds up to $10,000 annually for up to three years.  Should the commission offer incentives, they would be contingent upon Floyd County citizens being hired.  If approved, the $1.17-million-dollar project will require the hiring of more than 50 high-skilled employees, such as packaging engineers, supply-chain experts and software developers with an average wage approximately four times the Floyd County average hourly wage.

“There is a major need for what we do, as many e-commerce and manufacturing companies are struggling to optimize their packaging operations and shipments to support more efficient supply chains. This has been a consistent problem in the industry for generations,” said John Moore, co-Founder and director of packaging for IQPack.

“Packaging is the vital thread connecting all parts of an operation such as materials cost, handling and storage, labor productivity, transportation cube and sustainability. We bring unique expertise, a laser focus, and passion to harness the value of packaging innovation, along with the proper tools to ensure a positive impact in all these areas,” said Moore.

New Albany Mayor Jeff Gahan said, “While the Midwest is known as the manufacturing hub of the nation, the City of New Albany is also an ideal location for technology-driven companies looking for a smart, highly-skilled labor force.  The planned expansion of IQPack illustrates this point perfectly, and the City of New Albany will continue to assist the company in its efforts to grow and succeed.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered IQPack up to $1.5 million in conditional tax credits based on the company’s job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired.

“With a strong logistics industry and thriving tech ecosystem, Indiana offers companies like IQPack the perfect location to scale up their operations,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger. “We’re excited to continue supporting IQPack’s growth in New Albany and grateful for the company’s commitment to expanding its operations and creating high-wage career opportunities in Southern Indiana.”

IQPack is known for its unique, performance-based operating model, Packaging-as-a-Service, or PaaS.  The model is anchored in industry-leading packaging solutions that drive positive effects across customers’ total cost of supply chain.  Services include comprehensive, diagnostic packaging innovation combined with a team of packaging, supply chain and logistics experts. IQPack also utilizes powerful data analytics tools through its PACKCHAIN technology, which provides key operational assessments, on-going solution management, and operational dashboards for performance tracking.

“We’re creating solutions for our customers that drive predictable and sustainable results, year after year. We utilize many key tools to ensure packaging optimization brings real value to our customers’ material spend, labor efficiency, parcel and load spend management and sustainability goals such as reducing waste, returns, and damage.” said Doug Jones, IQPack’s co-founder and chief operating officer.

“It’s time to elevate the expectations and performance of packaging across the entire industry. Packaging material costs are important, but they represent only nine percent of the total supply-chain cost for our customers. Our PaaS model also attacks the other 91 percent of costs, and it reflects very positively on the customer experience, service metrics, and profitability of large shippers,” said Moore. “This expansion is the next stage of IQPack’s evolution, and we’re excited about the possibility of doing it here in New Albany.”

John Moore founded IQPack in 2013. The company recently went through a rebranding effort which included changing the name of the company from Packaging and Logistics Solutions. The new name and brand better reflect the innovative, technology-savvy approach the company is taking.

“The expansion of IQPack would be a big win for the community and a great way to start 2021,” said 1si President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser. “The growth and current success of this home-grown, high-tech company send a signal to other interested businesses that Southern Indiana is the right location for high-wage, high-skilled operations. We congratulate IQPack on this fantastic news and thank them for considering New Albany for these extremely desired career opportunities.”

All business inquiries for IQPack must be directed to the company’s website at www.theiqpack.com.

About IQPack, LLC

 IQPack, LLC, which was founded by John Moore as Packaging and Logistics Solutions in New Albany, Indiana, in 2013, has grown and flourished as a high-tech, packaging solutions company with a reputation for innovation and customer satisfaction. Guided by seasoned leaders of the packaging and global operations industries, our team of best-in-class packaging, logistics, and data analytics experts have a genuine passion to live our core values of integrity, innovation, customer focus, community, and family. IQPack, LLC, developed a unique “Packaging-as-a-Service,” or PaaS, model, which is designed to utilize progressive packaging optimization solutions that drive cost savings and operating efficiencies across 100-percent of our clients’ supply chains. The company is also known for PackChain, a proprietary, data analytics software platform that supports the PaaS model, providing objective analysis, broad solution features sets and a performance tracking capability for all key cost centers within our customers total supply chain operations. Given the steady growth in the company’s customer base of e-commerce and manufacturing, the team at IQPack, LLC, is focused on continuing its track record of success in meeting and exceeding the goals of its clients. For more information, visit www.theiqpack.com.

About One Southern Indiana:

One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses thrive in the Southern Indiana and metro area.

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors. Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth; Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses; Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in the initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org

 Media Contact:

IQPack, LLC

https://theiqpack.com/contact-iqpack/

 

One Southern Indiana

Suzanne Ruark

Director, Marketing and Communications

812.206.9050

suzanner@1si.org

One Southern Indiana Announces Webpage to Assist Office of the Governor

by 1si News1si Press Release

Clark and Floyd County Citizens Encouraged to Apply for a Gubernatorial Appointed Boards

New Albany, Ind. – (December 10, 2020) – One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties, announced today the launch of a webpage which will allow all citizens of those two Southern Indiana counties to apply for open positions on state boards and commission. The website, www.1si.org/ibc, was created in consultation with the Office of the Governor as a way to geographically diversify the approximately 230 boards and commissions in the state of Indiana.

During a 1si member luncheon with the Indiana Governor in September, Governor Holcomb encouraged President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser to provide his office with qualified and viable candidates residing or working in Clark and Floyd counties for consideration on gubernatorially appointed state boards, commissions, committees, councils and task forces.

The organization responded, and after discussions with the governor’s staff, volunteered to act as an information hub and intermediary between interested Southern Indiana citizens and the Office of the Governor. The organization will collect resumes and required forms from interested citizens as well as provide Southern Indiana residents with a list of openings from the Governor’s office.

Michael Nossett, deputy general counsel for Governor Eric Holcomb said, “On behalf of the Governor, we are grateful for and excited about 1si’s efforts to help Hoosiers in Clark and Floyd counties learn more about engaging in public service with the state’s boards and commissions.  We look forward to connecting with those willing to be considered.”

The webpage, www.1si.org/ibc, contains the state form, which is also available via email from suzanner@1si.org.  This form is the single intake document used by the governor’s office for serving on a state board or commission. Those interested must also submit his or her professional resume. Due to the nature of disclosures required, both documents will be kept strictly private. Clark and Floyd county citizens may request their name be put forth for consideration for as few as one and as many as five positions.

A confidential database of interested individuals will be kept by the 1si communications department and be transferred to the office of the governor at least four times annually. Should a request come from the governor’s office for recommendations to fill an immediate opening, 1si will transfer the name and information of every person who has expressed an interest serving that capacity.

Chesser said, “We are happy to provide this service both to the citizens of Southern Indiana and the governor’s office.  It is a great opportunity for those who live in our communities to help 1si carry the message of Southern Indiana to Indianapolis while also providing an opportunity to serve our state. I anticipate there will be a lot of traffic on the webpage as we welcome all citizens, 18 or older, to volunteer for a position that suits their interest and talent.”

Individuals do not need to be associated with 1si, or a member of 1si, in order to submit or be considered. In addition, every Clark and Floyd County citizen who has submitted the required paperwork, regardless of age, race, gender, orientation, disability, nation of origin, or religious or political affiliation, will be presented to the Office of the Governor, which is completely responsible for the final decision.

About One Southern Indiana:

One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development organization serving Clark and Floyd Counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana/Louisville metro area. 

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors.  Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth; Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses; Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce. 

 

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Finalists Announced for the 2020 One Southern Indiana ONCE Awards

by 1si News1si Press Release

One Southern Indiana announced the finalists for the 2020 “ONCE” Awards today. The ONCE Awards is a combination of the ONE Awards, which was postponed due to the Corona Virus outbreak, and the ACE Awards, held annually in the fall.  This year’s event is scheduled for Thursday, November 12, 2020 from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Caesars Southern Indiana in Elizabeth Ind.

This year’s event will honor winners in 10 categories.  The first three categories are individual ACE awards and include:

Axiom Financial Strategies Group James W. Robinson Young Professional of the Year ACE Award

  • Zack Flanagan, Board and You Bistro
  • Joshua Kornberg, Ivy Tech Community College
  • Beau Zoeller, Frost Brown Todd, LLC

Kightlinger & Gray, LLP Sam Day Professional of the Year ACE Award

  • Kimberly Martin Dawkins, PNC Bank
  • Todd Read, SoIN Tourism
  • Eric Yazel, Clark County Health Department

Duke Energy Kevin Hammersmith Community Leader of the Year ACE Award

  • Jerry Finn, Caesars Foundation of Floyd County
  • Allen Howie, Idealogy Marketing + Design
  • Laurie Kemp, Momentum Title Agency
  • Cathy Scrivner, LegalShield / IDShield

Online voting for these three categories will take place on Friday, October 16 and will continue until noon on Friday, October 23rd.  You may vote for your favorite by visiting the 1si.org website or Facebook page.

Also, the winners of the ONE awards, which was originally scheduled for April but postponed, will be announced.  Both judging and online voting is complete in the following categories:

The Centra Credit Union WorkHub Innovation in Culture ONE Award

  • arc
  • Harding, Shymanski, & Company, P.S.C.
  • Kentuckiana Wood Products, Inc.

The Indiana Members Credit Union Rising Star ONE Award

  • ActionCOACH Bluegrass
  • Naked by Sunday
  • Taylor’s Cajun Meat Company

The MCM CPAs & Advisors Business of the Year ONE Award for companies with 50 or fewer employees

  • Extol Magazine
  • LL&A Interior Design
  • Voluforms

The Nu-Yale Nonprofit PROGRAM of the Year ONE Award

  • Carnegie Center for Art & History: Youth Education Program
  • Hosparus Health Southern Indiana & Grief Counseling Center: Heart Connection Program
  • LifeSpan Resources, Inc.: Social Transportation program

The German American Bank Business of the Year ONE Award for companies with 51 or more employees

  • Libs Paving Co., Inc.
  • SIHO Insurance Services
  • The New Washington State Bank

1si will also be awarding the DMLO Economic Development Impact Project of the Year ONE Award, which is given to the expansion or attraction project having the greatest impact on our community in the past year and the AML Construction Economic Development Partner of the Year to the business which has had the most positive effect on Economic Development in Clark and Floyd Counties over the past year.

Finalists in the first eight categories were chosen by a panel of judges based on criteria including business history, community involvement, response to adversity, newly created opportunities and innovation in products or services.  The Economic Development Impact Project Award and Partner of the Year Award were chosen based on information submitted at the launch of a project with regard to the impact of the project on the community at large.

At the event, attendees will enjoy socially distanced networking, cash bar, a plated dinner and a full production awards ceremony.    Due to Indiana social distancing guidelines, the ballroom will accommodate 294 guests and 1si anticipates it will be sold out.  In order to accommodate those unable to purchase in-person seating, the event will be offered to members virtually.

Currently, only virtual reservations are being taken.  The cost for a member to attend the event virtually is $30 and a non-member is $45.  Once in-person reservations are open, pricing for individual 1si members is $60 each in-person and $85 for in-person guests.  Reservations may be made by visiting www.1si.org or by calling (812) 945-0266.


Sponsors for the 2020 ONCE Awards are:

Platinum

AML Contruction, Axiom Financial Strategies Group, Centra Credit Union, DMLO, Duke Energy, German American Bank, Indiana Members Credit Union, Kightlinger & Gray, LLP, MCM CPAs & Advisors and Nu-Yale;

Gold

Business First, Extol Magazine, Fuzzy Zoeller’s Covered Bridge Golf Course, Lloyd’s Florist, MCM CPAs & Advisors, Mister “P” Express, Inc., Mightily and Sounds Unlimited Productions; and

Silver

1Source HCMS, Clark Memorial Health, iHeart Media, L&D Mail Masters, PNC Bank and The Refinery.

 

Kenco-logo

Kenco Logistics Opens E-Commerce Fulfillment and Distribution Center in Jeffersonville, Ind.

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Kenco logoJEFFERSONVILLE, IND. (July 21, 2020) Kenco Logistic Services, LLC, a Tennessee-based logistics company, has announced plans to open a new fulfillment and distribution center in the River Ridge Commerce Center. The 250,000-square-foot leased facility will operate at 201 River Ridge Parkway in Jeffersonville, Ind.

Kenco Logistics is the largest woman-owned, third-party, logistics company in the United States. The company provides integrated logistics solutions, including distribution and fulfillment, comprehensive transportation management and material handling services, as well as real estate management and information technology.

Over the past 70 years, the company has grown to include more than 50 warehouse locations throughout the United State and has been honored with a number of awards, including Inbound Logistics’ Top Ten 3PL Inbound Logistics Excellence Awards (2012-2019) and Top Green Supply Chain Partner Inbound Logistics (2011-2019).

“With this new facility, our customers will be able to access more of their growing customer base with increased ease,” said Dan Coll, vice president of e-commerce fulfilment at Kenco. “We are excited to present these advantages to businesses as they look to adjust to the ever-changing e-commerce environment.”

The new facility will help serve the increasing demand for transportation of e-commerce products.  According to Forbes magazine, U.S. retailers’ online year-over-year revenue growth is up 68 percent as of mid-April, and there’s been a 129 percent year-over-year growth in U.S. and Canadian e-commerce orders as of April 21, 2020, with 146-percent growth in all online retail orders.

“Jeffersonville is ideally situated for a company like Kenco Logistics to continue to grow and succeed,” said Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore. “Not only do we have a great community with hard-working citizens, but we are also located in a perfect spot, within a day’s drive to 75 percent of the country’s markets, with three major interstates and two new bridges.  The city is pleased with Kenco’s decision to locate here and stands ready to assist them any way we can.”

“We are pleased that another national leader in logistics has recognized the value of locating at the River Ridge Commerce Center,” said Jerry Acy, executive director of the River Ridge Development Authority. “We look forward to welcoming Kenco to the River Ridge family and supporting the company’s growth in Southern Indiana. Our central location and world-class amenities have made River Ridge a preferred location for numerous logistics, manufacturing, and supply-chain management companies. These firms see that we have all the components to make them successful: location, access to major interstates, waterways and rail, modern infrastructure and a competitive tax environment.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana, said, “As we all work together to restart our economy, we’re pleased to welcome a well-established and respected company like Kenco Logistics to our community!  By attracting companies that pay wages above the county average, families in Southern Indiana can start to manage their household recovery and financial stabilization, as well.  This is a great win for the River Ridge Commerce Center, the City of Jeffersonville and everyone who assisted in the project, and we look forward to partnering with Kenco Logistics in the future.”  

About Kenco Logistic Services, LLC:

Kenco provides integrated logistics solutions that include distribution and fulfillment, comprehensive transportation management, material handling services, real estate management, and information technology—all engineered for Operational Excellence. Woman-owned and financially strong, Kenco has built lasting customer relationships for more than 60 years. Kenco’s focus is on common sense solutions that drive uncommon value. Also, connect with Kenco on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and the Kenco Blog.

About One Southern Indiana

One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area.

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors. Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth; Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses; Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in the initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business-friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:     

Debra Phillips
Kenco Logistics
Debra.Phillips@kencogroup.com
Office: 423-643-3473
Cell: 904-955-1008

Suzanne Ruark
One Southern Indiana
suzanner@1si.org
812-206-9050

ICEA-logo

One Southern Indiana Honored As 2020 Statewide Chamber of Commerce of the Year

by 1si News1si Press Release

One Southern Indiana (1si) received statewide recognition as the 2020 Indiana Chamber of the Year today at the annual meeting of the Indiana Chamber Executives Association (ICEA)
“One Southern Indiana continues to perform at an exceptional level, even in the midst of 2020 national challenges,” said ICEA President Shelli Williams. “The 2020 ICEA Chamber of the Year continues to be bold in their leadership through a powerful strategic plan resulting in outstanding successes for the communities that they serve.”

1si President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser said, “I have never been prouder of our team. Being recognized by ICEA as the Chamber of the Year is a great honor which is entirely due to the professionalism, dedication and enthusiasm of the entire staff. Appreciation for their hard work, especially during the COVID-19 crisis, is well deserved and I want to thank them for all they do.”

By the end of 2019, the 1si team had taken the lead in reaching 80 percent of their goal of $50 million in capital investment. The staff celebrated an impressive 584 jobs created with new job wages of $32.26 per hour, well-above their goal of $21 per hour new job recruitment. In 2019, the staff successfully relaunched an insurance program for members, launched a YP mentorship program and reformatted roundtable groups to better serve member needs. For the first eight months of the fiscal year, this chamber was on-track. Then came COVID-19.

The organization immediately launched 1si Cares, a three-prong approach to assist businesses in navigating the current health crisis. The first prong, 1si Connects, provides businesses the resources needed to continue business during this disruption to normalcy. The second prong, 1si Collaborates, was accomplished by staff members stepping up to work with local elected officials and foundations. This resulted in the successful funding of 123 business loan requests, totaling more than $1.2 million directly awarded to businesses in need. The final prong, 1si Calls, offers daily Facebook Live events called “Ask an Expert,” allowing businesses to have real time conversation for assistance during the pandemic. These videos posted to their website have been viewed more than 18,400 times since the pandemic began.

The Chamber of the Year award is given annually by ICEA to recognize excellence in the chamber of commerce leadership profession. The chamber of the year application process focuses on four core areas including leadership/governance, finance, advocacy and programming/membership. Award finalists were reviewed by a panel of industry professionals from Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky and Oklahoma.

In addition to the top award, 1si received two 2020 Communication Excellence Awards for the 2019 Annual Meeting “Mission SoIN Possible” marketing campaign and the 2020 Business Resource Guide, which is a new publication for 1si. Expanded details with links to all award submissions can be found on the ICEA website.

About the Indiana Chamber Executives Association:
The Indiana Chamber Executives Association is comprised of more than 300 professionals leading local chamber of commerce organizations throughout the state. The organization targets the leadership development for local chambers so that staff members are well equipped to lead their communities.

About One Southern Indiana:
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area.

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors. Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth; Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses; Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in the initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business-friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Media Contacts:
Shelli Williams, IOM
ICEA President
812-871-3000
shelli@iceaonline.com

Suzanne Ruark
Director, Marketing & Communications, 1si
812-206-9050
suzanner@1si.org

Southern Indiana Community Partners Loan $1,152,552 Million to Businesses in Need

by 1si News1si Press Release
Local Government, Foundations, Private Donors and One Southern Indiana Join Together to Disburse 123 Loans

June 25, 2020 (New Albany, Ind.) – It has been three months since Governor Holcomb announced an executive “Stay at Home” order for the citizens of Indiana.  Since that time, small businesses throughout the state have struggled to stay afloat during the COVID-19 Pandemic and subsequent economic downturn.  Recognizing the need for direct assistance to small businesses, One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties, along with the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County and the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana, joined together to raise funds to assist.

Response was overwhelming, with funding coming from the three initial partners as well as the BlueSky Foundation, Metro United Way, the Clark and Floyd County Commissioners, the Cities of Jeffersonville and New Albany and the Towns of Clarksville and Sellersburg.  Funding was also received from private individuals who wished to remain anonymous. 

There were three loan products offered with the funds raised.  The first, the COVID-19 Small Business Emergency Forgivable Loan Fund, approved 44 loans for a total of $419,257, which was dispersed to approved applicants within one week.  Of that amount, $199,000 was loaned to Clark County businesses and $220,257 to businesses in Floyd County. 

Donum Dei Brewery was one of the recipients of this program and owner Richard Otey said, “ Donum Dei would like to thank Jerry Finn and the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County, One Southern Indiana and all of the other organizations that contributed to the COVID-19 Small Business Emergency Forgivable Loan.  This loan will allow us to stay open and maintain our staffing at current levels.  It will also give us the opportunity to replenish our raw materials that have been depleted by making hand sanitizer for the community.”

The second loan product, called the Community and Cultural Relief Loan Program, was a zero-interest revolving loan program.  From that fund, a total of 44 businesses received $561,295,  with $175,946 loaned to Clark County businesses and $385,349 loaned to Floyd County businesses.

Ross Wallace, owner of New Albany’s Him Gentleman’s Boutique received a loan from this program.  He commented, “This loan means so much to me! Thank you, Caesars Foundation, for this amazing opportunity. After Him Gentleman’s Boutique being closed for almost two months and Derby being postponed, the business saw a significant loss of revenue.”

The “Jeffersonville Sustains” Forgivable Loan Program was the third loan product providing 35 businesses with $172,000 in direct assistance.  All recipients of this program were located within the city limits of Jeffersonville. Phillip and Stefanie Caldwell, owners of Hoopsters Sports Grill, were recipients of this loan and said, “We are grateful to live in an amazing community, that during this trying time in our country, steps up and helps their small businesses be able to keep their doors open. The money that has been loaned to us will help us pay our utilities, mortgage and keep buying supplies.  We will continue to pay the generosity forward.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of 1si, was pleased with the efficiency and results of the program, and said, “We took on this challenge knowing that every business needed help, and we would not be able to assist them all.  But everyone in Southern Indiana can be proud of this effort in our collective time of need.  Not only did we have a multitude of partners step forward to support the fund, but we also had 1si and Southeast SBDC staff members assisting loan applicants, volunteers reviewing and approving the loans and many others who helped get the word out to the community at large.  This is an incredible accomplishment and its success can be attributed to everyone involved.”

About One Southern Indiana:

One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 from the Economic Development organization serving Clark and Floyd counties and the Chamber of Commerce.  1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area.

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors.  Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth;  Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses;  Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in the initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce.  More information on One Southern Indiana is available at www.1si.org.

 

Media Contacts:
Suzanne Ruark
Director, Marketing and Communication
One Southern Indiana
(812) 945-0266
SuzanneR@1si.org