South Coast Baking Company announced Wednesday it's opening its second production facility in Northwest Arkansas. It plans to use an existing building at 800 S. 40th in Springdale in an $8.7 million investment.
"This is another example of economic development, more jobs for Springdale specifically and Northwest Arkansas in general," said Gov. Mike Beebe at an announcement for the new facility.
South Coast Baking Company will pay its employees an average of $25 an hour. The manufacturing company makes frozen cookie dough for retailers.
"South Coast is a company that provides their cookie dough to a whole lot of folks, whether its Sam's Club and Mrs. Fields," Beebe said. "It's a win-win for all of us."
South Coast Baking Company has been honored as a Supplier of the Year by both Sam's Club and Mrs. Fields. It's also a major supplier for Panera Bread.
There are several neighborhoods near the company. Sheryl Boyd lives next to the facility and welcomed the manufacturer.
"A lot of people really need jobs around here," Boyd said.
Boyd said she would consider applying.
"That would be good for people like me that has two kids and a high car note and high rent," Boyd said.
Beebe said the state recruited the company with incentives like money from the governor's Quick Action Closing Fund.
"About 150 jobs at $25 an hour, it's another piece of the puzzle as we try continue to invest in our people, invest in Arkansas," Beebe said.
South Coast officials expect to initially employ 80 workers its first year, 40 additional employees its second year and 150 by its third year.
Remodeling the existing 104,000-square-foot building will start in November and the company hopes to begin operations in July 2014.
People interested in applying are directed to contact the company's hiring center by calling 1-800-478-4252.