CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Riffle Machine Works, Inc., a leading manufacturing employer in Ross County, has announced a substantial expansion project at its Chillicothe facility, marking a significant milestone in the company’s trajectory.
Established in 1980, Riffle Machine Works, Inc. plays a pivotal role as a primary sequenced components supplier for major truck manufacturers, contributing to the local Kenworth supply chain as one of the four distinguished manufacturing support services (MSS) companies. MSS relationships, a key aspect of the manufacturing process, involve collaboration with specialized third-party entities.
In partnership with JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE), and the Greater Chillicothe & Ross County Development Department, Riffle Machine Works, Inc. is set to expand its facility by 46,000 square feet. This strategic move is geared towards enhancing MSS and other automotive manufacturing services, enabling the company to introduce a new product line and broaden its operational capabilities.
Tim Riffle, Treasurer of Riffle Machine Works, expressed gratitude, stating, “Riffle Machine is grateful for the continued support from Tammy Eallonardo of the GCRCD, JobsOhio, and the Green Township Trustees, for this inclusion grant and tax abatement that support our new expansion project. We would also like to thank Kenworth Chillicothe and the Kingston National Bank, all of which are strategic partners, as we look forward to future growth opportunities.”
The company’s investment of $2.5 million in building construction is expected to yield not only physical expansion but also the creation of 20 new jobs. Moreover, Riffle Machine Works, Inc. is committed to retaining its existing workforce of 293 employees.
JobsOhio played a pivotal role in supporting the project through a $25,000 JobsOhio Inclusion Grant, while Ohio Southeast Economic Development facilitated the grant process. The Ross County Commissioners, with the backing of Green Township Trustees, approved a real estate tax abatement to bolster the project. This follows a pattern where Riffle Machine Works leveraged similar tax incentives for four previous expansion projects.
Tammy Eallonardo, Director of Greater Chillicothe & Ross County Development, emphasized the significance of this growth opportunity, stating, “We are pleased to assist Riffle Machine Works in yet another growth opportunity. The Riffle family’s continued investment in our community creates jobs and fills a critical need in the local supply chain.”
The JobsOhio Inclusion Grant, designed to provide financial support for eligible projects in designated distressed communities and businesses owned by underrepresented populations, played a crucial role in facilitating the expansion.
Katy Farber, OhioSE Vice President, expressed enthusiasm, saying, “We love to see our local manufacturers grow their capacity and impact. We are grateful to JobsOhio for their investment in Riffle Machine Works and the Southeast Ohio region, setting them up for long-term success in Ross County.”