Gov. Doyle: Announces over $700,000 for three northeast Wisconsin companies

Contacts: Laura Smith, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162

Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608-267-9661

Projects Will Create 139 Jobs

MADISON – Governor Jim Doyle today announced $707,500 in funding for three companies to expand and create 139 jobs. The tax credits will help Arla Foods, Belmark Inc and Custom Fiberglass Moldings expand their operations. Commerce Secretary Aaron Olver made the announcements today on behalf of the Governor at an event held with Arla Foods at its plant in Kaukauna.

“As the economy turns around, we must continue to work hard to support communities and new economic development opportunities,” Governor Doyle said. “I am pleased we are continuing to support good companies that are creating jobs and a stronger future for northeast Wisconsin.”

“Along with our current investment at our Hollandtown Dairy, this tax credit will further support the production of our specialty cheese operation here in Wisconsin,” said Arla Foods, Inc. President Susie Hjorth. “Our investment allows us to increase production, which therefore creates and expands the workforce here in our local community. We appreciate the strong support of the State of Wisconsin, our local dairy farmers, dedicated employees and their families.”

Arla Foods will receive $275,500 in economic development tax credits to support its $8.9 million, 6,200 square-foot expansion project in Kaukauna. The expansion will help Arla Foods expand its specialty cheese production and create 41 jobs. Arla Foods sells its dairy products throughout the world and is part of a Danish / Swedish Co-Op Dairy owned by dairy farmers and their families.

Belmark Incorporated of De Pere will receive $263,000 in economic development tax credits for an expansion project that will result in hiring and training 55 new employees. The company will expand its production capacity and install new equipment through this $9,025,000 project. Belmark Inc. manufactures pressure-sensitive labels, flexible packaging, and folding cartons.

Custom Fiberglass Moldings, Inc. in Weyauwega will receive $169,000 in economic development tax credits for its 15,000 square foot addition to its manufacturing facility, which will create 43 jobs. The $864,000 expansion project will meet increased demand for its products. Custom Fiberglass Moldings, Inc. uses resin-transfer processes to build components for various industries.

These projects build on Governor Doyle’s efforts to position Wisconsin for future growth. Since taking office in 2003, Governor Doyle has worked aggressively to create and retain jobs in Wisconsin. Governor Doyle’s budget last year created some of the strongest economic development tools in the nation to help businesses create jobs and get people back to work. Wisconsin now has powerful new tax credits to help manufacturers create and retain jobs, new tools to help investors create start-ups, and new incentives to spur research and development.