BIOKYOWA MARKS 15 YEARS WITH EXPANSION

The news was the best kind.

BioKyowa announced a major expansion. The project will cost about $35 million, and it is expected to generate between 40 and 60 news jobs.

Industrial recruitment efforts for new business are crucial to continued economic growth in the region. But more often than not, it is existing industry and business that bring the good news of new jobs and construction to communities.

BioKyowa manufacturers the agricultural product L-Lysine, an amino acid that is added to feed grain. The expansion will add two new feed-grade amino acids to the production: L-theonine and L-tryptophan.

With the expansion, the plant will manufacturer an impressive 5,000 metric tons a year.

Five new buildings will be constructed, which should also boost the local construction scene.

BioKyowa is more than a business partner. The plant management and its employees are good neighbors and community boosters. The company supports the Area Wide United Way and Southeast Missouri State University Foundation. It recently gave a $25,000 grant to the new Cape Girardeau Vocational-Technical School.

BioKyowa's continued success in Cape Girardeau speaks well for international partnerships as well.

The company has been honored with the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce's Commitment to Excellence Award and Industry of the Year.

Last week's announcement came as the company celebrated its 25th anniversary in Cape Girardeau. This quarter-century of success is a credit to both the company and the community.

The company started operations here in 1982 with a $25 million plant and 70 employees. BioKyowa then expanded in 1991. The $15 million project doubled plant production and brought the work force to 100.

BioKyowa's first 25 years in Cape Girardeau have proved a fertile partnership for both town and business. Hopefully the next 25 and beyond will be even more bountiful.