Signature Brands, LLC, opens its new 207,000-sq.-ft. popcorn-popping production and distribution facility in Ocala, Fla., which, as a whole, represents a $15 million investment. Founded 60 years ago in Ocala, the company has grown significantly, expanding its facilities three times during the last 15 years.
Signature Brands, LLC opened a new 207,000-sq.-ft. popcorn-popping production and distribution facility near its headquarters in Ocala, Fla., which once in full operation, will employ more than 600 staff members, including year-round and seasonal, and operate 24/7.
In August 2008, the company acquired the popcorn producer that manufactures and sells Popcorn Expressions, which provides both contemporary and traditional holiday tins filled with three types of air-popped popcorn. The tins are often saved as keepsakes after the popcorn has been consumed. Popcorn Expressions produces more than 10 million holiday popcorn tins each year.
“It’s exciting that Signature Brands has chosen Marion County for their newest location,” says state senator Evelyn Lynn. “This is a significant company with promise of growth and the reality of providing many jobs for Marion County. This is the start of a popping economic boom for Marion County.”
“Since the acquisition of Popcorn Expressions, we’ve begun producing decorative tins for other holidays, including Halloween and Easter, and we’re now introducing a smaller size for everyday snacking,” says Nando Zucchi, senior vice president of marketing, Signature Brands. “We are thrilled to expand our capacity through this new facility.”