The Russell County Industrial Development Authority (RCIDA) has announced the sale of its 9,400 sq. ft. manufacturing building in Jamestown to Von Gruenigen Furniture Makers, LLC. The company plans to move in and have the new facility operational in Spring of this year.
South Kentucky RECC facilitated their loan through the Rural Economic Development Loan & Grant Program with the United States Department of Agriculture. Through this program, USDA provides zero-interest loans to local utilities, which they, in turn, pass through the local businesses, which aids in growth and creates or retains jobs in our communities.
A family-owned company, father and son team Ed and Casey Von Gruenigen began operations in 2009 designing and building custom furniture. The company has since expanded into the cabinet making business, added commercial clients, and invested in state-of-the-art equipment. Currently, they have 8 full-time employees, and anticipate adding 5-10 new employees by 2024.
Relocating into the new facility will give their manufacturing business more room for production and expansion, but it’s not a far move for the company. “We chose to locate in Russell County because it is our home,” said Casey Von Gruenigen. “This is the area that we have lived, raised our families and have our friends. Russell County means a lot to us and we want to see it grow and prosper. We believe that expanding our local economy begins with investing in the local workers and providing opportunities to the local workforce.”
With a focus on quality while utilizing modern technology in their manufacturing, the company will be looking for qualified, skilled craftsmen in the fields of engineering, project management, design, fabrication, CNC operation, and installation. “The expansion will allow us to foster a more active relationship with the Lake Cumberland Regional College and Workforce Center and utilize the Kentucky Career Center – Cumberlands for finding local employees as needed,” said Casey.
Jamestown Mayor Regena Hinton said she is glad to see new manufacturing come to the city. “We appreciate Von Gruenigen Cabinet and Furniture Makers moving to Jamestown and will be happy to assist with whatever we can to help them move forward in their business.”
“The RCIDA worked diligently and quickly with the Von Gruenigen team as they needed to identify a facility for their growth,” said Clint Voils, Board Chairman of the RCIDA. “They have been a locally grown company which made this deal even more attractive. The RCIDA acquired this building years ago to ensure we had an opportunity to recruit a company such as Von Gruenigen Furniture Makers. We look forward to their continued success in our community.”
The Von Gruenigen’s attribute their success to the support of their customers. “We greatly appreciate their business and we’re so grateful for the trust they’ve placed in us,” said Casey. “We would also like to thank our employees for their outstanding work and dedication. We appreciate them helping us get to where we are today.”
Photo Caption:
The Von Gruenigen's closed on the property at the headquarters of South Kentucky Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation. South Kentucky RECC facilitated their loan through a USDA program. Pictured from left: Kenneth Simmons, South Kentucky RECC President and CEO, Clint Voils, RCIDA Board Chairman, Ed and Casey Von Gruenigen.