Frymaster LLC announced a major expansion of its Shreveport operations, committing $11.5 million to increase production capacity and develop new product lines. The investment will create 47 direct jobs and retain the company’s existing 511 positions, while Louisiana Economic Development projects an additional 66 indirect jobs, for a total of 113 new employment opportunities in the Northwest Region.
Local manufacturing gains a vote of confidence
LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois praised the move, noting that Louisiana’s manufacturing strength has helped companies grow from local operations into global businesses. “For more than 90 years, Frymaster has grown in Shreveport while competing around the world, and its continued investment reinforces Louisiana’s position as a place where manufacturers can keep evolving, expanding and competing,” she said.
The expansion centers on Frymaster’s newly acquired facility at 8800 Line Avenue, the former Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories site, which sits adjacent to the company’s existing plant. Over 60,000 square feet of the new building already support shipping and warehousing, and the company plans to modernize additional space over the next five years to boost production capacity and add fabrication capabilities.
Company leadership highlights benefits
“This investment is an important step in supporting the continued growth of our business and the customers who depend on us,” said Frymaster President Oscar Villa. “By expanding our operational capacity, we are creating greater flexibility to meet future demand, improve efficiencies, and continue delivering the innovative solutions and industry‑leading support our customers expect from Frymaster and Merco.”
Frymaster, a division of Welbilt, has been manufacturing in Shreveport since 1935 and supplies commercial frying equipment to major food‑service operators worldwide. The company’s long‑standing presence underscores the city’s role as a hub for industrial production in North Louisiana.
Mayor and economic partners welcome the growth
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux called the expansion “a strong vote of confidence in our city and our workforce,” adding that the city is proud to see the company grow locally. Justyn Dixon, President and CEO of the North Louisiana Economic Partnership, echoed the sentiment, saying the project exemplifies the type of growth the region seeks: “long‑time employers choosing North Louisiana again and again as the place to build their future.”
Initial manufacturing operations in the new facility are slated to begin in late 2026, with further investments in fabrication capabilities planned for 2027 and new product development initiatives launching in 2028.
State incentives support the project
To secure the expansion, the state of Louisiana offered Frymaster a competitive incentives package, including $300,000 from the Economic Development Award Program for infrastructure improvements. The company is also expected to participate in the state’s High Impact Jobs and Industrial Tax Exemption programs, further reducing costs and encouraging long‑term investment.
The expansion not only strengthens Frymaster’s ability to serve its global customer base but also reinforces Shreveport’s reputation as a resilient manufacturing community. With new jobs on the horizon and a modernized facility on the way, the project promises to boost local wages, support ancillary businesses, and contribute to the broader economic health of Caddo Parish.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
