Food Processing
It’s not that Jones Natural Chews Co. was unhappy with its former location of Woodstock, Illinois. It’s just that the firm’s executives didn’t realize how good things could be in Rockford until they actually moved here.
“We needed to expand manufacturing space and wanted to consolidate into fewer buildings. First, we were impressed with the lower costs of real estate here in Rockford,” says Laura Jones-Herr, Office Manager. “We were also very impressed with how welcome local economic development officials made us feel. Selecting our site, working with local government officials - it was all easy.”
You might not think a twenty-five mile move west would amount to much in terms of logistics, but it has resulted in significant time and cost savings.
“We receive supplies from a pretty diverse group of companies and we ship all over the country,” said Jones-Herr. “That’s where another key Rockford strength comes in; we’re much, much better located here with easy access to Bypass 20, I-39 and I-90.”
Beyond that, Jones has enjoyed efficiencies due to Rockford’s superior supply chain. “In Woodstock, we had to draw from all over to get things done. Here in Rockford, all the day-to-day stuff is easily available, from box suppliers to people to maintain our machines. It saves us a lot of time and money,” said Laura.
The company makes all-natural dog treat products using beef, pork, veal, lamb, jerky and sausage. It also makes baked treats. All high-quality animal product ingredients are supplied by USDA-inspected plants. Evidently, what is good for the dogs who consume Jones’ products is good for the Rockford area, too; when all is said and done, the firm expects to increase its workforce by at least 63%.
Food processing is just one of many types of industry that are well-suited to the Rockford area. If you’re in the process of selecting a site for a new or expanding company, please call Janyce Fadden at 815 987 8118 or email jfadden@rockfordil.com. She will be happy to help facilitate your site research and selection process for you.
Executive summary of the Winnebago County Food Processing analysis (pdf)