Just three months after breaking ground, Fratco’s new production facility in Fort Payne is quickly coming to life. The 42,000-square-foot plant—Fratco’s first in the Southeast—is moving steadily toward operational readiness, with construction crews making strong progress on both structural and infrastructure components.
The walls are up, roofing is well underway and an electrician has installed temporary lighting to support interior work. All subsurface drainage systems have been completed, clearing the way for the next phase of mechanical and utility integration.
“This isn’t just another facility—it’s a new chapter for Fratco,” said Bill Champion, Chief Operating Officer. “We’re building something from the ground up, tailored to the needs of the Southeast market and the high standards our customers expect. Every part of this plant is being designed with efficiency, flow and growth in mind.”
Once operational, the Fort Payne facility will produce both single- and double-wall corrugated pipe, ranging from 3 to 18 inches in diameter, with the infrastructure in place to expand production up to 48 inches in future phases. The site layout includes room for warehousing, shipping, office space and future expansion—all while maintaining a compact and optimized footprint.
The project reflects a significant investment in local talent, with Fratco set to create approximately 60 new jobs across manufacturing, logistics and administration. Hiring will ramp up in the coming months, with a focus on building a strong, long-term team rooted in the Fort Payne community.
Local officials and community partners have remained closely engaged throughout the process. From the city and county to the Alabama Department of Commerce and AIDT, the collaboration continues to be a driving force behind the project’s momentum.
“We said this was the right place, and it’s proven true every step of the way,” Champion added. “The people here have been all-in since day one. That kind of partnership is rare—and we’re grateful for it.”
As the walls go up and the systems come online, one thing is clear: Fratco’s commitment to quality, innovation and community is already taking root in Alabama clay.
More updates to come as the plant nears production.
