Corrugated plastic pipe maker Fratco has broken ground for a plant in Fort Payne, the company’s first ground-up plant in the Southeast.
The century-old pipe maker expects to create 50 to 60 manufacturing, logistics and administrative jobs. Workers in the 42,000-square-foot plant will manufacture single- and double-wall pipe from 3 to 18 inches in diameter, with plans for larger sizes in the future.
Fratco, based in Indiana, chose Fort Payne after a multi-state search for the right site — working with the city, the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority, the state and AIDT.
“The South isn’t just growing — it’s evolving,” said Bill Champion, Fratco’s chief operating officer. “We are thrilled to become part of that transformation.
“DeKalb County rolled out the red carpet,” Champion added. “From local officials to community leaders, everyone worked tirelessly to make this happen. It’s a perfect example of local collaboration driving regional success.”
Alabama Secretary of Commerce Ellen McNair said, “Fratco’s decision to put down roots in Fort Payne is another strong endorsement of Alabama’s ability to support world-class manufacturers. This project highlights the teamwork that makes our state stand out — from local leaders in DeKalb County to our workforce partners at AIDT.”
Brett Johnson, executive director of the DeKalb County EDA, added, “Fratco choosing to locate their Southeastern manufacturing hub here reminds the world that DeKalb County is the proven place for business. Their work will directly change the lives of many families in our region, and the ripple effect on our economy will last for generations.”
And Fort Payne Mayor Brian Baine added, “The City of Fort Payne is proud to see this project come out of the ground as we continue to diversify Fort Payne’s industrial base. Fratco’s location here continues our steady pace of growth of local employment opportunities.”
