December 13, 2023
State of Tennessee, Knoxville Chamber Announce Custom Foods of America Inc. to Expand Manufacturing and Distribution Operations in Knox County
- Custom food manufacturer and supplier to invest more than $51 million, more than double employee headcount in Knoxville
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter and Custom Foods of America Inc. (CFA) officials announced today the company will invest more than $51 million to expand its manufacturing and distribution operations in Knoxville, Tennessee.
CFA will create 249 new jobs at its Pleasant Ridge location in Knox County, which will bring its total headcount in the region to approximately 500 people.
The expansion will increase CFA’s production and distribution capabilities by adding nearly 200,000 square feet of new space for manufacturing, storage, staging and shipping.
Founded in 1982, Custom Foods of America Inc. is a Tennessee-based manufacturer and supplier of food products such as soups, side dishes, appetizers and sauces. Today, the company serves its customers in the restaurant and convenience store industries from its sole location in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Since 2019, TNECD has supported nearly 20 economic development projects in Knox County, resulting in approximately 1,800 job commitments and $126 million in capital investment.
QUOTES
“Tennessee is shaped by companies like Custom Foods of America that continue to invest in our state’s skilled workforce and strong business climate. I thank CFA for its commitment to creating hundreds of new jobs in East Tennessee and look forward to seeing the success that follows this expansion.” – Gov. Bill Lee
“Today’s announcement is proof that Knoxville and Tennessee have the right assets to attract and support companies like Custom Foods of America as they grow and expand. We are thrilled that Knox County will see nearly 250 new jobs as a result of this project and thank all our partners that worked together to bring this to fruition.” – TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter
“Custom Foods of America would like to thank Governor Lee, Commissioner McWhorter, and the State of Tennessee for partnering with us to add more jobs and expand our operations in the state. We look forward to many years of continued growth in Tennessee.” – Graham Hunter, president, Custom Foods of America
“Custom Foods of America has been a part of Knox County for over four decades. This expansion, which will result in more than 250 job openings, is a testament to their commitment and excellent work in our community. We are thrilled about this positive development for our county.” – Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs
“Custom Foods of America is a job creator and a food industry stalwart with more than 40 years of service and innovation. Businesses are constantly being recruited to relocate, but CFA chose to invest $51 million here in an expansion that will create hundreds of new jobs. We applaud the company’s robust growth and its commitment to Knoxville.” – Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon
“TVA and Knoxville Utilities Board congratulate Custom Foods of America on its decision to expand operations in Knox County. It’s aways an exciting day when we can celebrate a company’s commitment to continued growth in the region. We are proud to partner with Knox County mayor’s office, Knox County Commission, City of Knoxville, Knoxville Chamber and the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development to support companies creating jobs and investment in the Valley, and we celebrate this announcement together.” – John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of economic development
“Custom Foods of America has been an outstanding corporate citizen for Knoxville. I am grateful they have decided to expand here and generate more economic growth and jobs for our citizens.” – Lt. Gov. Randy McNally (R-Oak Ridge)
“It’s exciting to hear about the expansion of Custom Foods of America. CFA has been a valuable part of the Knoxville community for more than 40 years. Their expansion and the almost 250 additional jobs that will go to Knoxville residents is a win for both the company and the community. Congratulations to CFA and to the City of Knoxville, Knox County and TNECD for helping make this happen.” – Rep. Sam McKenzie (D-Knoxville)
“Custom Foods of America is another great example of a Knoxville company making a national impact. Their food scientists are creating dishes that are being served all over the country. The Knoxville Chamber is excited to see the jobs being created with this expansion and the capital being invested inside the city.” – Doug Lawyer, Vice President of Economic Development, Knoxville Chamber
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s mission is to develop strategies that help make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs. To grow and strengthen Tennessee, the department seeks to attract new corporate investment to the state and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth. Find us on the web: tnecd.com. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. Like us on Facebook. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
TNECD Media Contact
Lindsey Tipton
Public Information Officer
(615) 339-6608