This press release comes from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission:
Intimidator Inc., a manufacturer of 4x4 utility vehicles and zero turn mowers, today announced they are expanding their current manufacturing facility in Batesville and building a second facility in the Independence County Industrial Park. The company will invest $12 million in facilities and equipment while adding 400 new full-time employees over four years.
“We are indeed grateful for support from the Governor’s Office, the State of Arkansas, Arkansas Economic Development Commission, Independence County Economic Development Commission, City of Batesville, and this entire community,” said Intimidator owners Becky and Robert Foster in a statement. “These groups have given us overwhelming support, and last but certainly not least, we want to thank our entire team of employees that make it happen day in and day out.”
The expansion is the result of continued growth in the UTV market with the introduction of powerful new 800cc models; the lawn industry’s enthusiastic response to the new Spartan line of zero-turn lawnmowers; and the great people of northcentral Arkansas who help make them.
“Intimidator is a great example of the mechanical know-how and entrepreneurial spirit that flourishes in Arkansas,” said Governor Asa Hutchinson. “The fact that Intimidator is creating 400 new jobs reflects the company’s rapid growth in the utility vehicle market. They have combined innovative products and ideas with a workforce that is second to none, which results in continued success. Thanks to the Intimidator’s leadership for continuing to invest in Arkansas.”
Headquartered in Batesville, Arkansas, Intimidator Inc. is owned by Robert and Becky Foster. They also own Bad Dawg Accessories, which provides aftermarket accessories for UTVs, Spartan Mowers, and Gourmet Guru Grill, an easy-to-use ceramic grill that combines a grill, smoker, and brick oven. These companies currently employ 111 in Batesville.
"The City of Batesville is excited that Intimidator continues to grow and provide good paying jobs for our citizens,” said Batesville Mayor Rick Elumbaugh. “We are delighted that Robert and Becky Foster have chosen to expand their manufacturing operations here in Batesville and stand ready to assist them in any way we can."
“The Foster Family is yet another example of how important the entrepreneurial spirit is to Arkansas. Their expansion to the Independence County business park was a result of collaboration between the City of Batesville and Independence County. We are proud of their continued success and growth,” said Crystal Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Intimidator product line includes the Intimidator Classic, Intimidator Crew Cab, and Intimidator Truck series. The Intimidator Classic Series features three-passenger seating and a full-size bed. The Intimidator Crew Series also has a full-size bed, but boasts a greater passenger potential – comfortably accommodating up to six adults. The Intimidator Truck Series features three-passenger seating and a larger six-foot aluminum truck bed with built-in tool boxes ready to store the tools you need to get the job done. Four engines are available including two gasoline, a diesel, and a 48 volt brushless electric.
The Spartan Mower line is available in the RT and SRT models and PRO, HD and XD Series, to accommodate every customer, from personal to commercial use.
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