News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
The new home and corporate headquarters of Aphena Pharma Solutions was celebrated in Cookeville Tuesday.
Local leaders and company executives gathered for the ribbon cutting in the multipurpose room of the facility. CEO Shawn Rilley said the business will support the Cookeville of the future.
“We look forward to continuing to work with everyone in Cookeville and Putnam County in the state of Tennessee, which is a wonderful place to do business,” Rilley said. “We look forward for constant and continuous improvement in our business and growth in our business.”
The expansion came to a completion after about a year since the company announced the $21 million investment. The over 500,000 square foot building created 160 new jobs and will package, store and distribute pharmaceuticals.
“We are building a great company,” Rilley said. “Committed to service and to protection. We serve our community, we serve our employees, we serve our customers and we serve each other.”
Putnam County Mayor Randy Porter said the Chocolate Drive location has played a large role in economic development over some 50 years. Porter said he is proud that Aphena will continue to use the facility once owned by Russell Stover.
“What we found out is though is when they (Russell Stover) left, how devastating it can be for our community,” Porter said. “I come to work this way everyday and pass this building, and I have for many years and think, ‘Oh wow. What a great facility for someone to purchase and put something new in.’ Aphena you are an answered prayer to come and to do this.”
Cookeville Mayor Ricky Shelton said many people remember the building as Pre Pack. Shelton said the new identity of Aphena means a lot for the future.
“As the company grows, we are going to be here to grow with you and help you along the way,” Shelton said. “We thank you for believing in Cookeville and investing in Cookeville.”
Headquartered in Cookeville since 2002, Aphena employs more than 400 people.
