Edy’s to invest $18 million in local plant

Published: August 9, 2014 3:00 a.m.

Edy’s to invest $18 million in local plant; no new jobs

Paul Wyche | The Journal Gazette

A year ago, Edys Grand Ice Cream Inc. celebrated a $4.5 million expansion.

The company is at it again as it looks to invest up to $18 million in manufacturing, information technology and warehouse equipment, according to paperwork filed with city officials.

Edy's is seeking a 10-year tax abatement that will save the company $1.4 million at its Fort Wayne operations, 3426 N. Wells St.

Fort Wayne City Council hasn't voted on the tax break yet.

The request was filed with the city July 30.

No new jobs will result from this investment, but it is possible based on previous projects.

Installation of the new equipment is expected to be done by December 2015.

The plant employs more than 500 workers, with the majority being production personnel who make about $35,000 a year.

Edy's officials did not return calls Friday.

Last year, management at the plant said some of the growth was the result of a new soft-serve product the company was developing. In recent years, Edy's completed a 2,500-square-foot expansion that included a renovated cafeteria, men's and women's locker rooms, two meeting rooms, office space and a new uniform-storage area.

Equipment, IT support and other infrastructure improvements were among the improvements hailed last year.

Edy's has said it will eventually spend $28 million in normal equipment and building upgrades at the plant over the next three years, officials said.

The company's investment shows continued attention to the Fort Wayne facility. 

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