FORT PAYNE, Alabama — Fratco, a century-old leader in corrugated plastic pipe manufacturing, has officially broken ground on a new, state-of-the-art production facility in Fort Payne. The company’s expansion into Alabama represents a major investment in the region’s industrial base and will create approximately 60 new jobs in manufacturing, logistics and administration.
The Fort Payne location marks Indiana-based Fratco’s first ground-up plant in the Southeast, a strategic move that positions the company to meet growing demand across the region.
Following an extensive multi-state site selection process, Fratco chose DeKalb County for its skilled workforce, strong infrastructure and exceptional community support.
“Fratco’s decision to put down roots in Fort Payne is another strong endorsement of Alabama’s ability to support world-class manufacturers,” said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “This project highlights the teamwork that makes our state stand out — from local leaders in DeKalb County to our workforce partners at AIDT.
“Alabama is proud to welcome Fratco to our growing network of innovative manufacturers, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they’ll make in this community for years to come,” she added.
Company leaders said Fort Payne offered the ideal combination of location, logistics and partnership. The project came together through collaboration with the City of Fort Payne, the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority, Commerce and AIDT, under the state’s new, competitive economic development framework.
The 42,000-square-foot facility is being custom-built to optimize efficiency, flow and scalability. Initial operations will produce single- and double-wall corrugated pipe ranging from 3 to 18 inches in diameter, with plans to expand capacity up to 48 inches in future phases.
“DeKalb County rolled out the red carpet,” said Bill Champion, Fratco’s chief operating officer. “From local officials to community leaders, everyone worked tirelessly to make this happen. It’s a perfect example of local collaboration driving regional success.”
Brett Johnson, executive director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority, said Fratco’s decision underscores the region’s manufacturing momentum.
“Their work will directly change the lives of many families in our region, and the ripple effect on our economy will last for generations,” he said.
Fort Payne Mayor Brian Baine added that the city continues to see steady industrial growth.
“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,” he said.
