Family Business Reaches Across the Atlantic (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Covington, Kentucky – MarfoFMA, a division of the century-old French agri-food company Fleury Michon Group, revealed plans this week to launch its inaugural U.S. production plant in the city, marking a significant step in its North American growth.[1][2]
Family Business Reaches Across the Atlantic
Fleury Michon Group, founded in 1905, built its reputation in prepared meats and meals before venturing into airline catering. The company acquired Quebec-based FMA in 2006 and Dutch firm Marfo in 2019, merging them into MarfoFMA to strengthen its position in Europe and North America. This latest move extends that strategy stateside.
Arnaud Prévéraud, MarfoFMA’s North America area manager, described the project as a pivotal achievement. “This represents an important milestone for the family-owned Fleury Michon Group and its international catering business,” he stated.[1]
The new facility will focus on producing high-quality frozen meals tailored for airlines, railways, and hospitality clients. Currently, MarfoFMA serves its North American operations solely from the Quebec plant, but this addition promises greater capacity and localized expertise.
Repurposing a Local Landmark
MarfoFMA selected a former White Castle distribution center in South Covington for the $37 million-plus investment. Local leaders hailed the choice as a smart reuse of underutilized industrial space. Covington Mayor Ron Washington noted the transformation would inject vitality into the area.[2]
The site offers strategic advantages, including proximity to major airports and a skilled workforce. Renovations will equip the plant for advanced food manufacturing, with training programs to instill MarfoFMA’s proprietary techniques among local employees.
- Production staff for meal assembly and quality control
- Logistics managers to handle distribution
- Machine specialists for equipment maintenance
- Supervisory roles in operations and compliance
Economic Lift for the Bluegrass State
The initiative will create 78 full-time positions, bolstering Northern Kentucky’s job market. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear celebrated the news as evidence of the state’s appeal to global firms. “Today’s announcement is a great reminder that Kentucky’s economic momentum is not only going strong, but that the commonwealth is open and ready for companies from all over the world to establish their New Kentucky Home,” he said.[1][3]
State incentives sweetened the deal. The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority approved up to $1.5 million in tax benefits through the Kentucky Business Investment program, plus $200,000 more via the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act. The project stemmed from a 2025 trade mission to Europe.
| Incentive Program | Potential Amount |
|---|---|
| Kentucky Business Investment | Up to $1.5 million |
| Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act | Up to $200,000 |
Broader Implications for Catering Sector
Airline catering demands precision and scalability, especially as travel rebounds. MarfoFMA’s entry addresses supply chain needs for U.S.-bound flights, reducing reliance on Canadian production. The firm aims to deliver consistent service across continents through this expansion.
Recent divestitures, like the 2024 sale of a Spanish ready-meals stake and a French meal trays unit, refocused Fleury Michon on core strengths. Investors view the U.S. plant as a logical next phase.[1]
- MarfoFMA invests over $37 million in Covington for frozen airline meals.
- 78 skilled jobs target production, logistics, and maintenance roles.
- State incentives total up to $1.7 million in tax support.
This development underscores Kentucky’s rising profile in food manufacturing. As MarfoFMA trains its first American teams, the plant stands poised to serve major carriers efficiently. What impact do you see for local economies from such international investments? Share your thoughts in the comments.Just Food
