U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Co. plans to build a new manufacturing facility in Hopkinsville that would create more than 200 new jobs, pending approval of state incentives through the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority.
The project would nearly double the company’s Kentucky workforce and expand its existing operation on Weyman’s Way with new manufacturing equipment and facilities.
Thursday afternoon, Gov. Andy Beshear said the investment shows Kentucky remains attractive to major employers and highlighted the economic impact the project could have on Hopkinsville and the surrounding region. Beshear added that the expansion strengthens the company’s existing Hopkinsville operation, which currently employs about 165 workers.
Company President and CEO Michael Brace said Kentucky played an important role in the company’s past and future plans. He said the new facility will improve manufacturing efficiency and help support production of the company’s well-known smokeless tobacco brands, while thanking state and local leaders for their partnership.
The project includes construction of a modern manufacturing facility alongside USSTC’s current operation. The company produces brands including Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal and Husky. USSTC is an indirect subsidiary of Altria.
Christian County Judge/Executive Jerry Gilliam praised the proposed investment and job creation, saying the company has long been a strong corporate partner in the region through both manufacturing and community support.
Hopkinsville Mayor James R. Knight Jr. called USSTC one of the city’s leading manufacturers and said Hopkinsville “fully supports” the company’s continued growth and investment at South Park.
Knight further confirmed that letters of support had been sent in previously, and noted that Christian County’s relationship with USSTC had been “long running and fruitful” for the community.
South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council Executive Director Carter Hendricks credited cooperation between local, regional and state partners for helping make the project possible and said the organization looks forward to supporting the planned expansion.
State officials noted the announcement adds to what the Beshear administration describes as Kentucky’s strongest period of economic development growth, with more than 1,300 private-sector projects and over $50 billion in announced investments statewide since 2019.
