He has been in business since 1973. Yates said purchase of the building will allow the company to expand its research and development, technology, manufacturing, training and distribution capabilities throughout the United States and international markets. A news release stated that Charleston is a strong base for the firm's expanded operations, with a good labor pool and access to higher education resources through Eastern Illinois University. We're growing a business there. We have processes to put in.
Equipment is on the way.
Yates declined to say how many people he expects to employ nor the kind of technology the company will offer. We're going to take it slow and grow strong. Yates said the Charleston plant will not affect the Casey operation. Yates said the TruServ building is an excellent facility but will require some modification before the company begins operations. Yates credited Jeanne Gustafson of Coles Together and Charleston Mayor Dan Cougill with influencing him to locate the plant in the TruServ facility.