(Photo courtesy of LinkedIn)
Marathon Cheese is expanding its manufacturing capabilities in Booneville through a $326,000 investment that is expected to create 39 jobs.
The Wisconsin-based custom cheese packaging and transportation company is adding new manufacturing equipment at its Booneville facility, including a production line designed to increase the plant’s slicing and packaging capacity. Installation of the new equipment was completed at the end of July.
The expansion builds on Marathon Cheese’s more than six decades of operations in Booneville. The company opened its local facility in 1962 and currently employs 192 full-time workers.
“Mississippi’s strongest economic development stories are often the ones that continue to be written over decades, and Marathon Cheese is a prime example,” Gov. Tate Reeves said. “Since 1962, the company has been an important employer in Prentiss County, creating jobs and strengthening the local tax base.”
Reeves said the latest investment will help the company modernize its operations and remain competitive.
“By reinvesting in its operations, Marathon Cheese is positioning itself for continued success in the decades ahead,” Reeves said. “We are proud to support projects that help Mississippi’s longtime employers modernize and remain competitive.”
Marathon Cheese is headquartered in Marathon, Wisconsin. The company’s history in Booneville dates back to its initial operations in 1962, followed by an expansion the next year. In 2000, the company expanded again, moving its operations into a larger and more efficient facility.
Marathon Cheese President Gary S. Bachand said the latest investment includes a new slice line and case-packing equipment that will substantially increase the plant’s manufacturing capabilities.
“Booneville offers both the infrastructure and workforce needed by Marathon Cheese for this strategic investment,” Bachand said. “We are delighted to be working with the Mississippi Development Authority, Prentiss County and the city of Booneville on the current project to increase manufacturing capabilities and greatly appreciate the support we have received.”
The Mississippi Development Authority is assisting the expansion through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, program. Prentiss County, the city of Booneville and the Tennessee Valley Authority also are providing assistance.
MDA Executive Director Bill Cork said Marathon Cheese’s continued investment demonstrates the importance of established industries to Mississippi’s economy.
“For more than six decades, Marathon Cheese has been an important part of the Booneville community,” Cork said. “These are the types of companies that fuel Mississippi’s economic momentum — the ones that continue to expand in Mississippi and create opportunities in their communities.”
Cork thanked Marathon Cheese for choosing to continue investing in Booneville and Prentiss County.
Booneville Mayor Lori C. Tucker also welcomed the expansion, pointing to both the new jobs and the company’s longstanding relationship with the community.
“Marathon Cheese has been a valued part of Booneville’s business community for decades, and we are excited to see the company continue investing in our city,” Tucker said. “This expansion of manufacturing capabilities and the creation of 39 new jobs reflect the strength of our local workforce and the confidence Marathon Cheese has in Booneville’s future.”
Tucker said investments from longtime employers help strengthen the local economy while creating new opportunities for area families.
“Projects like this strengthen our local economy, create opportunities for families, and reinforce Booneville’s reputation as a great place to do business,” she said.
With the new equipment now installed, the expansion will increase Marathon Cheese’s production capabilities while growing its Booneville workforce by approximately 20%.