SOUTH POINT, OH — Azure Standard, in partnership with JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE), the Ohio Department of Development, and the Lawrence County Economic Development Corporation, announced a $9.3 million investment on Monday, June 2, 2025, at 12:55 PM EDT, to establish a new distribution and greenhouse facility in South Point, creating 150 new jobs. The project marks a significant boost for Southern Ohio’s economy and reinforces the state’s top industry of food and agriculture.
Governor Mike DeWine hailed the expansion, stating, “Food and agriculture is Ohio’s #1 industry, so Azure Standard’s move to grow and deliver fresh, healthy foods is a perfect fit.” The company, which evolved from a family farm in Dufur, Oregon, into a nationwide natural health food distributor since 1987, plans to occupy the Spec 13 building, mirroring its Oregon headquarters. Founder and CEO David Stelzer emphasized, “This move brings us closer to our East Coast customers with greater speed, sustainability, and freshness,” highlighting Azure’s mission to steward healthy living from soil to table.
The facility will feature 20,000 square feet of cold storage, 2,000 square feet of office space, and 14 greenhouses for year-round organic produce, including vegetables and tropical fruits. The 60,000-square-foot buildout will include a refrigeration system, racking, and conveyors. Azure distributes organic, non-GMO, and natural foods under brands like Azure Farm and Azure Market, aiming to reduce shipping times and fuel usage while serving the Midwest and Eastern U.S.
JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef noted the site’s readiness as a key factor, saying, “This project attracts Azure from the West Coast and brings new jobs to South Point.” The investment is supported by a Job Creation Tax Credit and a $880,000 JobsOhio Spec Development Grant from 2021. Lawrence County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Bill Dingus added, “We’re thrilled Azure chose South Point… we look forward to supporting their growth.”
Lt. Governor Jim Tressel called it a “great win for Lawrence County,” supporting local families and future development, while OhioSE President and CEO Matt Abbott praised the infrastructure investment, stating, “Spec buildings like Spec 13 give businesses the confidence to choose Southeast Ohio.” The project underscores a collaborative effort to enhance job opportunities and community strength in Southern Ohio.
