Route 11 Potato Chips will expand its existing potato chip production facility in Shenandoah County, Virginia.
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The company will invest more than $1.2 million and create 13 jobs in Mount Jackson, while sourcing nearly half of its new potato and sweet potato purchases from Virginia agricultural producers. The Commonwealth is partnering with Shenandoah County and Route 11 on this project through the Governor's Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Fund.
Relocating from Maryland to Virginia in 1992, Route 11 has built a reputation for producing quality, kettle-cooked potato chips with unique flavors and a company focus on sustainability.
Route 11 will install a second production line in its current facility to meet increased demand for its potato chips, particularly increased orders of its sweet potato chips, from major grocery chains and wholesale distributors. The company sources chipping potatoes from Virginia and beyond, while sourcing 100% of their sweet potatoes from Virginia.
Route 11's success has made it a flagship brand for the Virginia's specialty food industry. Thanks to its active participation in the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) Virginia's Finest specialty food and beverage program, Route 11 has received domestic and international exposure through dedicated trade and marketing representatives in Virginia's network of global trade offices.
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services worked with Shenandoah County to secure this expansion for Virginia. Governor McAuliffe approved a $50,000 grant from the AFID Fund to assist Shenandoah County with the project.
Route 11 Potato Chips is also committing to purchase more than 1.5 million pounds of potatoes and sweet potatoes from local producers, supporting existing agribusinesses in the region. ■
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