Strataflo plans expansion of Fort Wayne production facility

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – A longstanding local manufacturer is planning to grow. Strataflo Products, a manufacturer of industrial valves, today announced plans to invest up to $2.3 million to expand its existing production facility in Fort Wayne, adding up to 10 new jobs by the end of 2024.

Strataflo makes industrial check valves and foot valves, serving industries including food and beverage, infrastructure and construction equipment, military, oil and gas, water, and many others. Plans call for adding 12,000 square feet to Strataflo’s existing manufacturing space at 2010 Lakeview Dr. in Fort Wayne, nearly doubling its size. The company also plans to install new machinery to keep up with a steady increase in demand.

“As we have developed new product lines over the last decade, we have progressed to the point where we’re beginning to outgrow our current facility,” Strataflo president and general manager Andy Warner said. “This expansion will position us for continued success right here in Fort Wayne.”

Strataflo was founded in Fort Wayne in 1939 and has been an innovator from the start: its original molded-rubber poppet was invented to provide better sealing and longer-term performance than O-rings. Now serving a worldwide customer base, Strataflo’s products are designed around proprietary American-made castings, machined to exacting tolerances, and built with craftsmanship by skilled hands.

Check valves allow liquids, gases, and steam to flow in only one direction. They are commonly used in water wells, oil and gas pipelines, geothermal HVAC systems, and many other plumbing and industrial applications.

Strataflo currently employs 12 people in Fort Wayne. Company leaders plan to hire CNC machinists and a manufacturing engineer. Interested applicants can learn more by emailing jobs@strataflo.com.

“It’s encouraging to see local businesses grow and succeed. The work being performed at Strataflo is one of the reasons why Fort Wayne is a leader in economic development opportunities, business expansions, and new jobs,” Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry said. “Manufacturing continues to be a key sector in our community and region, and we congratulate the team at Strataflo as the company’s proactive and innovate business practices are making a tremendous difference.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) offered Strataflo up to $75,000 in conditional tax credits, based on the company’s job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired. Fort Wayne City Council will consider tax phase-ins for the company’s eligible real and personal (equipment) property investments. Northeast Indiana Works will provide the company with additional hiring and training assistance.

“Small businesses have long played an important role in building communities across Indiana,” said Jim Staton, SVP and chief business development officer for the IEDC. “After more than 80 years, we’re proud Strataflo continues to call Indiana home, investing in their community and opening doors to greater career opportunities.”

About Strataflo Products

Founded in 1939, Strataflo Products is a manufacturer of industrial check valves, serving the food and beverage industry, infrastructure and construction equipment, military, oil and gas, water, and many other industries. No matter the application, Strataflo will meet its customers’ expectations of quality, reliability, and service. Learn more at strataflo.com.

About Greater Fort Wayne Inc.

Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. serves Fort Wayne and Allen County, Ind., as its metro chamber alliance and primary point of contact for economic growth. GFW Inc. focuses on prosperity and community vibrancy through economic development, advocacy, programs, and resources that support business success, leadership development, graduate retention and community engagement. GFW Inc. worked with state and local partners to assist Strataflo with their expansion plans. In 2020, GFW Inc. assisted 20 businesses in expansions or relocations in Allen County, resulting in more than 1,850 projected new jobs, more than $69 million in new annual payroll, and more than $169 million in new investment.