TAUNTON, Mass. — Tribe Mediterranean Foods (http://www.tribehummus.com), the only manufacturer of all-natural hummus available nationwide, today announced it will stake significant claim on the growing hummus category as executives and employees join the Honorable Deval Patrick, Governor of Massachusetts, to celebrate the capacity expansion at Tribe’s headquarters and production facility located in Taunton, Mass.
Tribe’s capacity expansion was made possible, in part, through tax increment financing (TIF) from the City of Taunton and investment tax credits (ITC) from the State designed to fuel growth and operations for Massachusetts-based businesses. The incentive package assisted Tribe in offsetting its recent $8 million capital expenditure at the site and planned future investments that will enable Tribe to continue to grow and bring more competitive products to the marketplace, such as the Tribe Origins line launched this past month. As a result, the State and Taunton helped retain 66 jobs and will enable Tribe to create 59 new jobs for a total of 125 full-time positions over time. As of today Tribe’s payroll has already increased to 82 full time employees.
“We have spent the better part of the last year working closely with local city and state officials to leverage creative tax financing against our growth strategy,” said Carlos Canals, president & CEO, Tribe Mediterranean Foods. “Our plant expansion has facilitated more efficient production and new capabilities for our entire line as we forge ahead in building market share, accommodate larger orders and service new distribution contracts that address consumers’ direct demand for a superior, all natural hummus product.”
From an economic development perspective, Tribe’s investments and growth have resulted in a significant multiplier effect bringing returns for both Taunton and Massachusetts. Tribe has recruited and relocated several executives to the area, including the relocation of Canals, and added multiple new roles to its marketing, sales, operations and finance teams. In addition, the company has hired many Massachusetts-based contractors and increased its purchases of operating supplies and services from local vendors. Finally, the company regularly patronizes local businesses, restaurants and hotels with frequent visits from executives of Osem Israel, Tribe’s parent company, and other vendors contributing to Tribe’s growth.
“Tribe’s growth is a banner example of how the public and private sector can work in tandem to make a significant mark on local and State economies,” stated Governor Patrick. “I hope Tribe’s story inspires other businesses to leverage the statewide incentives we have put into place and continue to help locally-based companies grow and prosper. Keeping Tribe in Massachusetts is a great win for the state and will continue to stimulate the state, region and local economy.”
The all-new Tribe Origins line brings consumers the most authentic and all-natural hummus eating experience in four delectable flavors. Three of the new flavors – zesty spice and garlic, tomato and veggie and spicy red pepper – feature a generous serving of hand-crafted toppings made from original recipes and the finest ingredients found in nature. Tribe uses the most advanced techniques and expertise to produce the incredibly silky texture and rich flavors found in Tribe Origins.
“As Americans’ interest in healthier food options continues to grow, we see hummus gaining in popularity due to its flavor, positive nutrition and convenience,” said Canals. “With our new Tribe Origins line, we are changing consumers’ perception of how truly all natural, authentic hummus should taste. Tribe delivers on all fronts—from flavor to nutrition—making it a necessary staple for any refrigerator.”
In support of the new product offering, Tribe will be executing a series of innovate programs including a multi-city mobile tour featuring a fleet of Tribe branded vehicles that will put the locally-made product into the hands of hundreds of thousands of consumers nationwide. In addition, Tribe will soon unveil the world’s first iPhone “natural food finder” application which helps consumers lead a more all natural lifestyle through identifying natural food stores and farmers markets in their area with the simple touch of a button.
"Job creation is our number one priority today and incentives like this provide Massachusetts businesses the opportunity to expand and employ more workers. By giving companies like Tribe Mediterranean Foods tax incentives for employing more people and investing in their infrastructure we directly impact job creation. I applaud the Patrick-Murray Administration for providing opportunities such as this because now a company located right in my district is able to increase their employment and continue to grow their Taunton facility," said Senator Marc R. Pacheco.
"I am happy to see this targeted state investment creating jobs and helping Tribe Mediterranean Foods grow in the great city of Taunton," said Representative Patricia Haddad.
"I am very proud to welcome Tribe to Myles Standish Industrial Park. The growth of the park shows genuine results and jobs in our area – not promises," said Representative James H. Fagan.
Tribe Origins began shipping to major grocery and food retailers throughout the United States in July, leading to nationwide availability for consumers in August. The packaging of each 11 oz container is fully-recyclable and features a clear covering that allows the toppings to be in full view for the consumer. The suggested retail price for new Tribe Origins is $3.99 to $4.49.
About Tribe Mediterranean Foods
Founded in 1994, Tribe Mediterranean Foods produces a healthy, great-tasting line of Mediterranean food products, including all-natural and organic hummus. Tribe is the only all-natural hummus available in supermarkets and convenience stores throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico. For more information, visit its website http://www.tribehummus.com or growing Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/TribeHummus?ref=ts.
Source: Tribe Mediterranean Foods