Frit Industries, Inc. Receives Trade Excellence Award from Governor Ivey

Frit Industries, Inc., a company based in Ozark, is one of six businesses to receive the Governor's Excellence in Trade Award. Kay Ivey, Governor of Alabama, recognized Frit Industries for its international impact, which drives economic growth in the state. More than 25% of the company’s sales are generated in international markets, with shipments reaching more than 20 countries.

“We are honored to receive this award and proud to be recognized, not just for supporting Alabama but for our work across the world,” says Brandon Benefield, Vice President.

Frit Industries has been part of Ozark since 1972. Keep reading to learn more about Frit Industries and how its innovative products support global food production.  

Frit Industries Manufactures Custom Fertilizer Products

For more than 50 years, Frit Industries has produced granular micronutrients and water-soluble fertilizers for agricultural and specialty markets. Its fertilizer is manufactured with the goal of bringing high-quality, agronomically sound products to the market. Frit Industries offers custom formulations and private labeling, which its clients can sell under their own brands. This distribution business model is an alternative to selling directly to consumers on the retail market.

“A lot of people use our products, just with different customer branding,” says Benefield.

Along with fertilizer, Frit Industries is also in the railcar repair business. With locations in Brewton, Alabama, and Bridgeton, North Carolina, Frit Car offers full-service repair and rubber lining for tank cars.

The Company Employs 30 People in Ozark, 173 Nationwide

Brandon’s grandfather, Dr. Gene Allred, is one of the founders, while his father, David, is the current president. Brandon works as vice president alongside his brother, Adam. Despite the multi-generational family legacy, Benefield is quick to emphasize that the entire staff makes the company successful and is responsible for Governor Ivey’s recognition.

“It takes many people to make the wheel go round,” he says. “Our staff made this recognition possible, both in our production plant and offices.”

Frit Industries prides itself on caring not only for its customers but for its employees. The company offers competitive pay, excellent benefits, and the stability of working with a well-established business that has been around for half a century. Benefield is particularly proud that some employees have been at the company since the beginning, while others have long tenures in the organization.

As for new workers, Frit Industries currently has open positions and is willing to train employees in its manufacturing processes.

“I don’t anticipate people coming in with knowledge of the fertilizer industry,” says Benefield. “When we hire, we look for willingness to work and learn. A little initiative goes a long way.”

Frit Industries is One of Ozark’s Best-Kept Secrets 

While Frit Industries has a global footprint, few people in Dale County are aware of the company and its far-reaching impact. Admittedly, a fertilizer manufacturing company isn’t as exciting to the average resident as a new restaurant or store opening.

Benefield hopes that this recognition by Governor Ivey will highlight the important role Frit Industries plays in supporting global agricultural sustainability while also creating jobs in Ozark, Alabama.

“Frit Industries is a staple of Dale County, offering stable employment, job training, and career growth,” says Holle Smith, President of the Ozark-Dale County Economic Development Corporation (EDC). “They have a global footprint but continue to operate locally. We are proud of their recognition by Governor Ivey and feel the award is well-deserved.”  

Explore Other Industries in Dale County

Frit Industries highlights the importance of the manufacturing and biochemical sectors in Ozark, but plenty of other industries are expanding here as well. Recently, Dale County welcomed a drone skill development facility that supports the defense industry. It also boasts other multi-generational businesses, such as Brown Manufacturing and Ozark Striping.

Learn more about the target industries in Dale County and the location advantages of operating here. See why companies stay in Ozark for generations and are proud to live here. Contact the EDC today and see how operating in Southeast Alabama can create opportunities for you.