Community Cheers: Florida's Natural To Remain In Umatilla

    Officials with Florida’s Natural this week announced that the firm, which had previously announced plans to sell its Umatilla plant and eventually cease operations here, has instead changed course and plans to remain in the community long term.
    “We are excited to announce that we will keep the Umatilla facility in order to support our long-term strategy,” said Nikki Hayde, Senior Marketing Manager for Florida’s Natural Growers, “Our Board of Directors approved our recommendation.”
    Florida’s Natural employs an estimated 100 people at its Umatilla packaging operations, and has had a presence in Umatilla for almost two decades. The firm operates at the facility previously owned by Golden Gem Growers along SR 19 just south of Umatilla.
    “We cannot thank the Umatilla team enough for their continued perseverance during these times of uncertainty,” Hayde said, We look forward to continuing to create our future together.”
    The announcement was celebrated on Monday.
    "Florida's Natural has always been a huge partner of our community," said Julie Rogers, Executive Director of the Umatilla Chamber of Commerce. Rogers cited Florida's Natural's ongoing civic participation with a variety of organizations, and the jobs created by their operations as just a few of the benefits of having the firm stay in town.
    “It will be a win for all,” she said.
    Umatilla City Manager Scott Blankenship echoed Rogers.
    “Florida’s Natural is a big jobs base for our citizens. It’s a good thing that they are staying.” Blankenship added that the news aids the city’s ongoing efforts to create and maintain a positive economic environment in and around the city.