Fiocchi, a leader in defensive, target and hunting ammunition, announced this week it has selected a 281-acre site in the Port of Little Rock, AR, for a new ammunition primer manufacturing facility. The move—which creates a sixth primer manufacturing operation in the United States—represents a $41.5 million investment, 120-person workforce expansion and will establish the only dedicated lead-free primer plant on the planet.
"This groundbreaking represents another significant milestone in Fiocchi's long-term plan to strengthen and expand our manufacturing capabilities," said Maurizio Negro, Fiocchi Group CEO, "and to bolster primer supplies not only for Fiocchi products but also to increase supplies for the ammunition manufacturing industry at large. We sincerely appreciate the support of Governor Hutchinson, Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston, Jack Thomas of the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, Bryan Day of the Port of Little Rock, and all partners involved who helped make this possible."
Three states were in the running for the new factory. The Little Rock location was selected after site searches evaluating real estate compatibility, logistical infrastructure, workforce capability and support from state and local leadership. Fiocchi has made three major acquisitions over the last two years, including premium shotshell manufacturers Baschieri & Pellagri and Lyalvale Express, and a division of Grandeur Fasteners. The latter is also located in Little Rock, AR, an operation that helped pave the way for the new primer manufacturing facility.
"Our focus on Little Rock for this major expansion comes from an ideal alignment of several considerations," said Fiocchi of America President and CEO Anthony Acitelli. "Aside from our strong ties with the state and local governments, Arkansas has a highly experienced and energetic labor force to call upon. Furthermore, streamlined logistics with other plant operations combined with management and supply chain efficiencies make Little Rock a logical choice. We will also benefit from logistical synergies with our ammo manufacturing industry partners."
