Hicksville Lands New Plant

2012-01-12T10:59:18-05:00

HICKSVILLE, OH (Press Release) – FWT LLC, the Texas-based firm that will establish a steel structure manufacturing site in Ohio, has purchased the former Dietrich Industries property in the village of Hicksville.

FWT completed the building purchase Dec. 29 and will begin remodeling the 319,000 square foot building in preparation for a summer opening. A manufacturer of steel structures for the electric and telecommunications industry, FWT plans to employ 200 individuals at the facility and will invest $15 million for this Ohio operation.

“Purchase of the former Dietrich Industries property marks a key development in FWT LLC’s effort to establish a new manufacturing facility in Hicksville,” said Jerry Hayes, executive director of Defiance County Economic Development. “Our mission from this time forward is to support FWT LLC as the company establishes a profitable business that will employ many Ohio citizens. I applaud Hicksville for creating an industry-friendly environment that helped attract this firm.”

The 92-acre Hicksville site is located at 762 W. High St. FWT plans to provide an average wage of $17 per hour at the facility.

“Hicksville is proud to count FWT LLC among the many valued businesses and residents of Hicksville,” said village mayor Larry Haver. “I would like to thank Defiance County Economic Development, the state of Ohio, AEP Electric and most of all FWT LLC for making this project possible.”

The project is supported by various state the local incentives, including a $200,000 grant and a $300,000 loan from village of Hicksville, a $100,000 loan from Defiance County, a $3 million loan from Ohio 166 Direct Loan Program, a $4 million loan from Ohio Enterprise Bond Fund and seven-year Ohio Job Creation Tax Credit.

“Hicksville was selected for this project after a search of nearly 30 different buildings across several states, including Indiana and Michigan,” said Jared Orzolek, assistant director of Defiance County Economic Development. “Defiance County has always been known as a place where quality people make quality products. FWT LLC will be a great addition to the Defiance County economy.” 

For more information on business and industrial development in Defiance, visit www.defecon.com.