Ernest-Spencer Metals to expand in Topeka; total economic impact estimated to be $264M

TOPEKA, KANSAS — On December 8, 2021, the Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO) board approved an incentive agreement that will aid in the expansion of Ernest-Spencer Metals. Ernest-Spencer Metals, or ESM, has grown to become one of the premier metal fabrication resources in the Midwest and serves clients throughout North America.

Previously referred to as “Project Warrior,” this expansion is expected to create up to 35 new jobs with an average wage of $43,500, plus benefits. It will also lead to $3.8 million in capital investments. The total economic impact expected over the next 10 years is $264 million. The performance-based incentive for this project is up to $214,000, resulting in a 249% return on investment.

“The development incentives provided by JEDO are a tremendous sign of the pro-business mindset Topeka and Shawnee County are deploying,” said Neal Spencer, president and CEO of Ernest-Spencer Metals Inc. “The partnership and excitement that these incentives create are precisely the catalyst that our company looks for in a growth partner. Ernest-Spencer’s south Topeka location will prove strategic to the long-term success of the company, and our team is excited to collaborate with the city of Topeka, as we work to achieve our mutual goals of providing quality jobs and economic prosperity. Ernest-Spencer began in Topeka in 1922. We look to honor that long history by growing with Topeka well into the future.”

“Our local economy continues to grow and is powered by businesses like Ernest-Spencer Metals,” said Topeka Mayor Michelle De La Isla, JEDO chair. “This great company is bringing new jobs to our community and, with that, new opportunities for our residents to jumpstart careers in this industry.”

“Ernest-Spencer Metals is a family-owned business based right here in Shawnee County and nearby Meriden,” said Shawnee County Commissioner Kevin Cook. “It is exciting to watch their business continue to grow. Over the years they have become the premier metal fabrication resource for our region, and I am confident this expansion will bring new jobs and opportunities to our community.”

“Topeka and Shawnee County’s manufacturing industry is the envy of many cities,” said Molly Howey, president of GO Topeka. “We have achieved our leadership role in this sector because of businesses like Ernest-Spencer Metals. They continue to reach for innovation and new opportunities, and that pursuit of excellence will undoubtedly power their job growth now, and in the future.”