Many citizens have asked, “With all this economic development talk, when will Owensboro benefit?” That answer came Tuesday when Swedish Match, a Philip Morris International Inc. subsidiary, announced a major expansion in Daviess County. In addition to hundreds of permanent jobs, officials estimated 2,800 trade jobs will be generated — all combining for an economic impact totaling hundreds of millions of dollars.
Citizens, business owners, and elected officials flooded the riverfront on a hot Tuesday morning to hear Swedish Match leaders, Gov. Andy Beshear, and other elected officials announce the $232 million investment. The expansion will create 450 new jobs at the company’s Owensboro facility, which produces ZYN nicotine pouches. The project is expected to have a $277 million annual regional economic impact.
“I’m excited to see this incredible new investment and the 450 great job opportunities it is creating for families in Owensboro and the surrounding region,” Beshear said. “Our economy continues to set records, and today’s announcement shows we’re bringing jobs to our people instead of making our people move to the jobs. I want to thank and congratulate company leadership for doubling down here in the Commonwealth and look forward to many more years of prosperity.”
The expansion, already under construction and set to be completed by the second quarter of 2025, will allow Swedish Match to meet the growing global demand for smoke-free products.
The investment will also enable the facility to move from a 5-day to a 7-day production schedule. The new jobs will include roles in engineering, production, and quality control. Click here for more information on career opportunities.
“Smoking cigarettes is the most harmful way to consume nicotine. We are accelerating our mission toward a smoke-free future,” said Stacey Kennedy, CEO of PMI’s U.S. business. “This investment in U.S. manufacturing capacity will increase the Kentucky plant’s workforce by about 40%, providing good-paying jobs and helping to meet the increasing demand for smoke-free products.”
Kennedy added that PMI has invested $12.5 billion globally to develop, scientifically substantiate, and commercialize innovative smoke-free products for legal-age nicotine consumers.
Company leadership noted a $277 million annual regional economic impact. Additionally, officials expect the construction phase will generate 2,800 trade jobs and a $400 million economic impact.
Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen highlighted the company’s long-standing presence in the community.
“Since Swedish Match’s arrival in our community in 1973, they have been a premier employer where many of our neighbors have been thrilled to make their work home,” Castlen said. “With today’s announcement, Swedish Match’s Daviess County employee count will be more than four times what it was in 1973. On behalf of our community, I say thank you and congratulations to Swedish Match on this historic announcement.”
Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson stepped up to the podium to show his support for the company and the expansion. He flashed a ZYN can from his coat pocket and praised Swedish Match’s commitment to the community.
“For the past 50-plus years, Swedish Match has been a great corporate citizen and employer,” he said. “We are so appreciative they will continue their legacy in Owensboro. This new investment continues to prove why our community is a great place to do business.”
Claude Bacon, president/CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, also emphasized the impact of the expansion.
“Congratulations to Swedish Match on this major expansion in Owensboro and Daviess County. For over 50 years, Swedish Match has been a significant contributor to the economic impact of Greater Owensboro,” Bacon said. “An expansion of this magnitude creates additional high-quality and high-paying jobs, positively impacting families in our community. Greater Owensboro is, in fact, greater because of incredible companies like Swedish Match.”
Kentucky lawmakers, including Sen. Gary Boswell, House Majority Caucus Chair Suzanne Miles, and Rep. D.J. Johnson, celebrated the announcement with a joint statement.
“This investment reflects the confidence that Swedish Match has in our skilled workforce and local community. Families in our area will benefit from well-paying jobs, and our local businesses will see increased economic activity.”
U.S. Rep. Brett Guthrie also expressed his gratitude.
“Swedish Match has always been a great community partner,” Guthrie said. “I’m grateful to Swedish Match for continuing to invest in our community and look forward to working with their team for years to come.”
As the project progresses, officials said the community can expect increased opportunities and continued growth, reinforcing Owensboro’s position as a key player in Kentucky’s economic development.
