Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear recently joined local officials and leaders of Belmark Inc., a manufacturer of printed pressure-sensitive labels, flexible packaging and folding cartons, as the company broke ground on its new $99 million manufacturing facility in Allen County creating 159 well-paying, Kentucky jobs.
“With every groundbreaking event, we celebrate another quality investment that will bring job opportunities and economic growth to the commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “This is an exciting next step for Belmark and the Allen County community. I want to thank the company’s leadership for their belief in what this great state has to offer and look forward to Belmark’s success here in Kentucky.”
The groundbreaking marks the start of Belmark’s investment to locate a new operation on 25 acres in Allen County. The new 156,000-square-foot flexible packaging plant – the company’s first facility in the commonwealth – will allow Belmark to increase manufacturing capacity and capabilities to better serve its customer base throughout the United States. Construction of the new facility is expected to be completed in 2026. The 159 full-time jobs created by the project will pay an average wage of almost $37 per hour, including benefits.
“Belmark is excited to expand our operations to Kentucky, marking a significant milestone in our growth and commitment to innovation in the packaging industry,” said Karl Schmidt, president and CEO of Belmark. “This new facility will not only expand our manufacturing capabilities but also bring quality jobs to the Allen County community. We are eager to contribute to the economic development of Kentucky and look forward to a successful partnership here.”
Founded in 1977, Wisconsin-based Belmark manufactures pressure sensitive labels, flexible packaging and folding cartons for customers in a broad range of markets. After 46 years of business, the company now employs over 1,300 people across seven facilities in De Pere and Shawano, Wisconsin, and Phoenix, Arizona. The company is committed to creativity, innovation and problem solving to help serve its customer base and advance the packaging industry forward.
Belmark’s project also contributed to Site Selection’s magazine’s recent ranking of Allen County in the top 20 on its America’s Best Counties list based on points per capita.
Allen County Judge/Executive Dennis Harper looks forward to the opportunities the investment will bring to the community: “We are very excited about Belmark locating in Allen County. This will provide more opportunities for our citizens to stay in Allen County and provide for their families. We look forward to a long relationship.”
Scottsville Mayor David Burch is excited to partner with the company as they grow in Scottsville: “We are excited to welcome Belmark to our community and pledge to work with them as they grow. This is a great company that weighed both the economic opportunity and quality of life in making the decision to expand into our area. They will be an exceptional partner moving forward.”
Allen County/Scottsville Industrial Development Authority (ACSIDA) Executive Director Johnny Hobdy noted the impact this investment will have on the community and surrounding region: “Belmark selecting Scottsville and Allen County for their next facility is a game-changer for our community. My commitment, as well as our community’s, is to make them every day proud of their decision, and we are beyond excited for this partnership.”