Century-old American manufacturer approved for state incentives to purchase equipment and make building improvements
FIAT Products has received approval for state economic development incentives to expand its Somerset manufacturing operation, a project expected to create 15 new jobs while reinforcing the company’s commitment to Pulaski County.
The expansion includes a $325,000 investment in equipment and building improvements to support continued growth at the Somerset facility. FIAT has a more than 100-year history of manufacturing plumbing products for commercial, institutional and residential markets. The brand can be found in hotels, schools, offices, hospitals and homes across the United States.
The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) approved the project through the Kentucky Business Investment program, a performance-based incentive designed to encourage private-sector investment and job creation across the Commonwealth. FIAT’s project will create 15 new full-time manufacturing jobs over the next several years while maintaining the manufacturing facility’s existing workforce. New positions are projected to offer an average hourly compensation package of $31.41, including employee benefits.
Somerset Mayor Alan Keck said the project is another reminder that supporting existing employers is essential to the community’s long-term success.
“Existing industries are the backbone of our local economy, and when a company chooses to reinvest and grow in the community it calls home, it sends a powerful message about confidence in our workforce and our future,” Keck said. “FIAT’s proposed expansion represents the type of investment that strengthens families, supports economic growth, and enhances quality of life throughout our region.”
Pulaski County Judge-Executive Marshall Todd said FIAT’s continued investment reflects the type of sustainable growth the community encourages and supports.
“Pulaski County remains committed to fostering an environment where businesses can succeed, expand and create quality jobs for our citizens,” Todd said. “We are grateful for FIAT’s partnership and believe this project will have a lasting positive impact on our community.”
Chris Girdler, president and CEO of the Somerset-Pulaski Economic Development Authority (SPEDA), said the announcement reflects the strength of the partnerships that enable existing industries to continue investing and growing in the community.
“At the heart of SPEDA’s mission is helping existing industries remain competitive and positioned for long-term growth,” Girdler said. “That means working alongside our local industries to understand their needs, investing in the infrastructure and workforce that support their success, and partnering with the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development to ensure companies like FIAT have the resources they need to continue growing in Somerset-Pulaski County. Existing industry expansion is proof of a healthy local economy, and we’re grateful for FIAT’s continued confidence in our community.”
For more information about FIAT, visit fiatproducts.com.