Gov. Steve Beshear announced today that Dippin’ Dots LLC plans to expand operations in Paducah, creating 30 new, full-time jobs and investing more than $3.1 million in the project.
Dippin’ Dots currently employs 170 workers, 60 of whom live in Paducah. Operational improvements will include purchasing energy efficient equipment, upgrading processes and renovating the facility.
“Many of us associate Dippin’ Dots as an essential part of the fun enjoyed at theme parks, fairs and festivals,” Beshear said. “As Kentuckians, we are proud that this global brand comes from the Commonwealth. These factors make this expansion of 30 new jobs and a multi-million dollar investment in Paducah that much greater.”
Dippin’ Dots has produced and distributed its patented ‘tiny beads’ ice cream products since microbiologist Curt Jones invented the cryogenic process in 1988. Manufactured at the company’s production headquarters in Paducah, Dippin’ Dots’ products are distributed in 48 states and 11 countries.
“This investment underscores our long-term commitment to market the wonderful Dippin’ Dots’ brand, introduce new products to complement existing ones and maintain the historic ties to Kentucky,” said Dippin’ Dots President Scott Fischer. “The upgrade of our unique production facility supports our plan to increase our point of presence across the United States and other countries in the coming years.”
To encourage the investment and job growth in Paducah, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) preliminarily approved the company for tax incentives up to $500,000 through the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based incentive allows a company to keep a portion of its investment over the term of the agreement through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments by meeting job and investment targets.
Paducah Mayor Bill Paxton said he was pleased with the announcement from Dippin’ Dots regarding its $3.1 million expansion and the need for additional employees.
“Dippin’ Dots products are internationally known, and I am proud that they are produced at the company’s headquarters in Paducah,” Paxton said.
KEDFA also approved Dippin’ Dots for tax benefits up to $25,000 through the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act, which allows approved companies to recoup Kentucky sales and use tax on construction costs, building fixtures, equipment used in research and development and electronic processing equipment.
“Dippin’ Dots is a Paducah institution, and I am so pleased that our relationship with a home-grown employer is deepening and expanding,” said Sen. Bob Leeper, of Paducah.
McCracken County Judge-Executive Van Newberry said Dippin’ Dots is a Paducah-McCracken County success story
“I want to congratulate Dippin’ Dots on its expansion and the addition of 30 jobs to our local economy,” Newberry said.