HF RUBBER TO DRIVE MANUFACTURING GROWTH IN TOPEKA
$71 MILLION ECONOMIC IMPACT EXPECTED WITH CREATION OF HIGH-PAYING JOBS
Topeka, KS — HF Rubber, a local primary employer in the manufacturing industry, is set to expand operations in Topeka through a strategic growth initiative that will bring 19 new jobs over the next five years with annual wages ranging from $50,000 to $80,000. This expansion, supported by economic development incentives approved by the Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO), is projected to generate an estimated $71 million in economic impact for the region, according to IMPLAN analysis. With a forecasted 415% return on investment, this project underscores Topeka’s position as a competitive hub for advanced manufacturing.
To accelerate the project’s success, JEDO voted to approve an incentive package totaling $147,000, which includes performance-based support for real property investment, equipment purchases, workforce training, and job creation. These incentives complement the company’s significant capital investment of $1 million in real property and $600,000 in equipment, reinforcing its long-term commitment to Topeka.
“HF Rubber is a clear example of how strategic partnerships can fuel growth in key industries,” said Rhiannon Friedman, President of GO Topeka. “This expansion strengthens our manufacturing base, creates high-quality jobs, and demonstrates the confidence local employers have in Topeka’s future.”
Company leadership echoed the importance of this investment for their clients, employees, and the broader community.
“This investment allows us to better serve our clients with enhanced capabilities while creating new opportunities for our employees,” said John Adams, Executive VP of HF Rubber Machinery. “We’re proud to invest in Topeka, a community that has supported us for over 65 years, and we look forward to contributing to its continued economic vitality.”
The collaboration between GO Topeka, JEDO, and HF Rubber reflects a shared commitment to fostering economic vitality and workforce development in the region. By investing in advanced manufacturing capabilities, HF Rubber will help position Topeka as a leader in industrial innovation while supporting the Greater Topeka Partnership’s Momentum 2027 strategic plan.
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About GO Topeka
GO Topeka creates county-wide economic success for all companies and citizens through implementation of an aggressive economic-development strategy that capitalizes on the unique strengths of the community. GO Topeka operates under the Greater Topeka Partnership and is the leading economic development agency in the area. For more, visit GoTopeka.com.
About HF Rubber
HF Rubber has proudly served the rubber industry for over sixty-five years, earning a high reputation as a manufacturer and a top employer in the Topeka community. With more than seventy employees, we are recognized for our commitment to quality and innovation. As a member of the worldwide HF Group, our US-based company supports tire and technical rubber manufacturers throughout North America by providing superior rubber mixing and processing equipment.
Our inclusion in the HF Group allows us to offer a comprehensive range of mill room products, including Banbury mixers, feeding hoppers, twin screw extruders, and mills. We also deliver engineering services and complete turnkey installation solutions, making us a single source solution provider for our customers’ needs.
At HF Rubber, we are dedicated to exceptional service, including machine rebuilding, new machine assembly, and a nationwide team of millwrights who handle maintenance, repairs, change outs, and modernizations. Our facility which features advanced CNC machines, an 18,000 square feet assembly hall and our extensive warehouse inventory, ensure that high-quality parts and spare components reach our customers quickly. As a major local employer, we take pride in supporting the Topeka community and contributing to its economic growth.
