Over 300 jobs will soon be available as a Canadian-based bakery company announced its expansion into West Tennessee.
Silver Hills Bakery has obtained the former Kellogg manufacturing facility in Rossville Tennessee. The $48.5 million investment is expected to bring 394 new jobs with an average wage of $54,350.
The facility will be revamped to “accommodate state-of-the-art bakery operations.” Silver Hills is known for whole-grain breads, buns, and bagels.
While an official timeline hasn’t been announced, local officials and elected leaders emphasized the projected economic impact for the region.
Fayette County Mayor Rhea Taylor said this will expand opportunities for residents and emphasizes their commitment to attracting “top-tier companies.”
The state of Tennessee’s Labor Market Report released in January showed that manufacturing employment has declined 27 percent from 1990 to 2024. Officials noted that this follows a national shift towards a “service-based” economy.
Despite this, the report said that food manufacturers have added 6,100 jobs since 1990.
“The project represents one of the largest economic development announcements in Rossville’s history, with ripple effects expected to benefit the entire region through increased economic activity,expanded tax base, and enhanced community development opportunities,” the Greater Memphis Chamber said in a statement.
Ted Townsend, president and CEO of the Greater Memphis Chamber said the competitive wages coupled with job opportunities will benefit the region’s “manufacturing base.”
“Silver Hills Bakery’s decision to revive the former Kellogg facility represents exactly the kind of economic development we’re pursuing across the Digital Delta,” Townsend said. “This announcement adds to the tremendous momentum we’re experiencing, with our region consistently outpacing others in Tennessee for new project announcements and capital investment.”
Memphis Moves, an initiative from the Greater Memphis Chamber, said the region has a “critical mass of industry-specific skills,” for manufacturing.
Judy Watters, mayor of Rossville, said this project is the result of collaboration from the state, Greater Memphis Chamber, Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and other partners.
“This collaborative effort shows what we can accomplish when we work together toward a common goal of creating prosperity for all our citizens,” Watters said.