Work under way for new company

LORETTO, Tenn. - Work has begun on the renovations to a vacant industrial site that Lawrence County officials are hoping will soon be filled with a fresh, clean scent.

Last week, soap company Lenco Laboratories, of Warren, R.I., announced its plans to expand by moving into a vacant building in Loretto Industrial Park just off North Main Street. The company, according to county officials, will be making an investment of $4 million into the facility in the next three years.

"The company is making an investment into Loretto and the county and they are on a fast pace to get the building renovation and production under way," said Lawrence County Executive Paul Rosson.

Not only does the company plan on expanding its production operation in the 14,000-square-foot building, but according to Loretto Mayor Ronnie McMasters, it plans on hiring 60 workers at an average pay of $14 per hour. He said the 60 number will not be immediate, but over a period of time.

McMasters said it's his understanding from company officials that the plant will be in production by November or December.

McMasters said the town is fortunate that Lenco, which is considered one of the country's leading speciality soap companies, selected Loretto.

McMasters said the company is a leader in the field of private label and speciality soap.

Patricia Mullen, a spokeswoman for Lenco, said company officials are thrilled to be moving into Loretto. She praised the effort and response from Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Chad Chancellor and other members of the county's economic development team.

"We truly believe our manufacturing operation is going to be a win/win situation for Lenco and Lawrence County," she said in a release. "We look forward to building our business in this partnership."

Chancellor said the company manufactures products that are sold in high-end retail stores across the world.

"I believe Lenco's product will be one in which the community will be proud to have produced here," he said.

Rosson said a lot of people played a major role in the recruitment of Lenco Liquids.

"This is just another part of our very aggressive campaign to grow jobs all across the county," Rosson said. "This is the third empty building that we've been able to fill since January, and we have hopes of filling another one in the county very soon."

Rosson said the additional jobs help unemployment totals. "We're thrilled to have these jobs here that will enhance our economy."

McMasters said not only does the company's plans include continuing their regular product line, but also adding a liquid soap line.

Applications for employment are being accepted through the Career Center, 702 Mahr Ave., Lawrenceburg.

Tom Smith can be reached at 740-5757 or tom.smith@TimesDaily.com.