Monee: Voortman’s Growth Steels Support of Village, Jobs
By Karen Haave
Voortman Steel’s expansion of its Monee facility has elicited a level of excitement not often seen in Will County villages.
A ceremonial groundbreaking last week drew a happy crowd to the site of the planned development at 25715 S. Ridgeland Ave.
Voortman purchased the 27-acre property last year to increase their operations in the United States, making Monee their US Headquarters. Based in the Netherlands, the company was looking for a new location when Monee Economic Director Bill Barnes coordinated efforts with ownership of the former Rainbow Farms site as a location for their operations.
Voortman is constructing a 100,000-square-foot building with 20,000 square feet of office and 80,000 square feet of warehouse space. The expansion will allow the company to respond to increased customer demand and company growth by increasing headcount and capabilities to provide a high quality of customer service while moving their supply chain to Illinois.
Local dignitaries and Gov. JB Pritzker congratulated company officials during the groundbreaking.
In his comments, Pritzker announced Voortman’s $51.4 million investment in capital expenditures, bolstered by an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement, that will enable the company to purchase and develop new property while increasing capacity by growing its talented workforce.
As part of the State’s comprehensive incentive package, Voortman received an EDGE tax credit, and has committed to making a $51.4 million investment, creating 51 new full-time jobs and retaining 40 full-time jobs. In calendar year 2023, companies in the EDGE program committed nearly $900 million in investments in Illinois communities across the state.
“With new incentives and nation-leading energy abundance and among the best workforce training, Illinois has once again become a destination for businesses looking to expand in Illinois and those looking to move here,” he said.
“We’re proud to be the US headquarters of Voortman Steel Machinery and to see it grow right here in Monee—creating good jobs and economic opportunity for the people of this region.”
Monee Mayor Dr. Therese Bogs, said it was a beautiful day to celebrate a monumental occasion for the Village of Monee.
“In a time when many companies are choosing to relocate or leave the state of Illinois, Voortman Steel’s decision to expand their operations right here in Monee is a testament to the strength of our community and the attractiveness of our business climate.
“This investment by Voortman Steel will have a significant impact on our local economy. It will create higher-paying jobs, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen our community. We are incredibly grateful for Voortman’s commitment to Monee and the surrounding area.
“Over the past few years, Voortman Steel has become an invaluable partner to our community. Their
dedication to excellence, innovation, and corporate social responsibility aligns perfectly with our own
values.
“We are proud to have them as a part of our community. As we break ground on this momentous day, we look forward to a bright future together.”
“A special congratulations,” she added, “to Mark Voortman, Adrian and Ben Morrall, and to the Voortman team.”
Bill Barnes, Monee Director of Economic Development, recalled meeting with Voortman representatives in 2022 as they were looking for more land for expansion.
“While the 27-acre property was too large for their immediate needs, their company grew over the next year, and we returned to this very spot, and now this is the place Voortman will build their U.S. Headquarters for manufacturing and technical support.
“We are excited for what this will mean for Voortman, as well as the global recognition and visitors their presence will bring to our community.”
Voortman Steel Machinery President Ben Morrall noted, “As we break ground today, we’re not just laying the foundation for a building. We’re laying the foundation for a brighter more prosperous future for the area. We’re showing everyone that economic growth and working with local and state government can go hand in hand.
“To everyone who has worked tirelessly to bring us to this moment – the architects, the engineers, the city planners, local government, Governor’s office and countless others – thank you. Your vision and dedication have made this possible.”
Karen Haave is a freelance reporter.