Pet Food Supplier Growing in Blackford County

A pet food supplier with operations in Blackford County is expanding. Iowa-based Naturally Recycled Proteins has announced it will invest nearly $10 million to add 24,000 square feet to its existing facility in Montpelier and add a small number of jobs.

NRP opened the 48,000 square-foot Montpelier facility in 2012 and currently employs nearly 50 workers. The company, which produces protein additives for pet foods, also has operations in Iowa and Nebraska.

"Since our initial investment here, we have been thrilled with the success of our Montpelier operation," said Al Koch, chief executive officer of NRP.  "The community, workforce, and business climate make this location a great choice for NRP’s growth and we are excited to make this investment."

The city of Montpelier has approve tax abatements for the expansion. Mayor Kathy Bantz described NRP as "critically important" to the city and an "excellent corporate citizen."