Author: cstambaugh@chattanoogachamber.com

A century-old leader in corrugated plastic pipe manufacturing is investing in the future of northeast Alabama. Fratco has officially broken ground on a state-of-the-art production facility in Fort Payne, marking its first ground-up plant in the Southeast and signaling a significant economic boost for DeKalb County.

The new 42,000-square-foot facility will bring 50 to 60 new jobs in manufacturing, logistics and administration, expanding opportunities for local families and strengthening the region’s industrial base. The plant will initially produce single- and double-wall corrugated pipe ranging from 3 to 18 inches in diameter, with room to scale up to 48 inches as demand grows.

Strategic Expansion Strengthens the Region’s Manufacturing Landscape

Fratco’s decision to establish its Southeastern hub in DeKalb County followed an extensive multistate site selection process. The choice reflects the region’s skilled workforce, infrastructure advantages and strong community partnerships — factors that continue to make the 16-county region a preferred destination for industry.

“The South isn’t just growing — it’s evolving,” said Bill Champion, Fratco’s chief operating officer. “We are thrilled to become part of that transformation.”

Fratco worked closely with the city of Fort Payne, the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority, the state of Alabama and Alabama Industrial Development Training (AIDT) to bring the project to life under the state’s new competitive economic development laws. Together, these partners helped create a business environment that made Fort Payne the clear choice.

Collaboration Drives Regional Success

“DeKalb County rolled out the red carpet,” Champion added. “From local officials to community leaders, everyone worked tirelessly to make this happen. It’s a perfect example of local collaboration driving regional success.”

That collaboration is already being recognized as a model for economic growth in Alabama. Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, praised the effort as proof of the state’s ability to support world-class manufacturers.

“This project highlights the teamwork that makes our state stand out, from local leaders in DeKalb County to our workforce partners at AIDT,” McNair said. “Alabama is proud to welcome Fratco to our growing network of innovative manufacturers.”

A Long-Term Win for the Community

Local leaders agree that Fratco’s arrival represents more than just a new business; it’s a long-term investment in the region’s economic future.

“Fratco choosing to locate their Southeastern manufacturing hub here reminds the world that DeKalb County is the proven place for business,” said Brett Johnson, executive director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority. “Their work will directly change the lives of many families in our region, and the ripple effect on our economy will last for generations.”

Fort Payne Mayor Brian Baine echoed that sentiment, emphasizing how the project fits into the city’s ongoing economic diversification efforts.

“Fratco’s location here continues our steady pace of growth of local employment opportunities,” Baine said. “The city of Fort Payne is proud to see this project come out of the ground as we continue to diversify Fort Payne’s industrial base.”

Strengthening the Region’s Economic Momentum

Fratco’s investment underscores the Greater Chattanooga Economic Partnership’s ongoing mission to support business growth throughout the tri-state region. With DeKalb County leading the way, this project stands as a shining example of how collaboration, community support and strategic investment can drive shared prosperity.