RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Agri-Industrial Plastics Company of Jefferson County. During this Congress, Ranking Member Ernst plans to recognize one small business in each of Iowa’s 99 counties.
“For 46 years, Agri-Industrial Plastics Company has relied on the unique experience and engineering perspective of its founder, Dick Smith, to support the agricultural community.” said ranking member Ernst. “By investing in technology, the company has moved from specializing in piglet feeders and farm drains to developing fuel tanks. The company is working to equip the next generation by partnering with Iowa universities to provide students with training and vocational skills. By prioritizing technology and development, it is evident that Agri-Industrial Plastics Company is truly focused on the future.”
In 1978, Dick Smith founded Agri-Industrial Plastics Company in Fairfield, Iowa. In its early days, the company worked closely with industry leaders to improve the plastic blow molding process. Over the years, Dick led the company to invest in technology capable of producing fuel tanks that met EPA regulations. Today, Agri-Industrial Plastics is a leader in industrial plastic blow molding. After 37 years at the helm of the company, Dick stepped down as president in 2015, when his daughter, Lori, took the reins.
Stay tuned as Ranking Member Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with its Small Business of the Week award.
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