FREEPORT - A specialized printing press is being touted by leaders for retaining jobs and bringing new opportunities to Harrison County.
On Monday morning, the Freeport Press, the county's largest employer, announced the addition of the press and the company's plan to expand operations during a special reception.
According to Freeport Press CEO and Owner David Pilcher, the printing press will enable the company to expand the clients its serves beyond the region.
"This new state-of-the-art printing press enables the Freeport Press to better serve its existing clients while creating a wonderful opportunity to grow the business," Pilcher said. "It also ensures job stability for our valued employees and their families."
The company, which currently provides 150 jobs to workers in the area, plans to add another 40 jobs over the next seven years with the expansion that is being funding through the Finance Fund, a statewide nonprofit financial intermediary. The fund provided $6 million in New Markets Tax Credits by partnering with the Ohio Department of Development and PNC bank for the project.
Both Ohio Governor Ted Strickland and Congressman Zack Space attended the reception which celebrated economic progress in the region.
"We are working every day to help businesses create new opportunities and new jobs in Ohio. In recent months we've seen job growth in Ohio again because in recent years we've been investing in growing Ohio industries and jobs that can't be outsourced," Strickland said. "The Freeport Press is already the largest private employer in Harrison County, and the addition of another state-of-the-art printing press is expected to create 40 new jobs. We're proud to have provided a loan to help make this new equipment purchase possible."
The company, which has been a mainstay in the community since 1880, is a nationally-recognized commercial printing company.
It offers commercial heat-set printing, finishing, mailing, distribution services and digital solutions for business in the area and beyond.
Pilcher purchased the business 11 years ago and has since revitalized the "Press" and expanded its capabilities and client base. He is assisted in running the business by his two sons, James and David Jr.
Congressman Zack Space said the company is being creative in brining jobs to the area.
"Being creative, innovative, and industrious is critical to bringing jobs to our region - and Freeport Press has shown those qualities impressively," he said. "They've been aggressive in making new investments and they've had the ingenuity and smarts to capitalize on emerging trends in the publishing industry. Working with Freeport Press has been a joy and our joint effort to bring new jobs to Harrison County represents a perfect partnership between business and government."
In May, Governor Strickland announced a $2.2 million 166 Direct Loan to support Freeport Press' expansion project. The loan was to The Finance Fund, which used New Market Tax Credits to provide financing for the $6.6 million total project by partnering with the Ohio Department of Development and PNC bank.
"The Freeport Press plays an important role in the region's economic vitality," said James R. Klein, CEO of Finance Fund. "By connecting Freeport Press to necessary funding, we are helping to sustain its growth and provide additional opportunities for employment to the residents of Harrison County."
County Commissioners Mike Vinka and Barbara Pincola were also on hand for the event.
"We are very proud to have a facility in our county like Freeport Press," said Vinka who chairs the commission. "We are very pleased to recognize them and are encouraged by their continued growth and the many things they do for this community and the county."
Sedgmer may be reached at ksedgmer@timesleaderonline.com.
