ZANESVILLE, Ohio – July 10, 2025 — Sterling Teal International Inc., a leading manufacturer of automotive air fresheners, announced plans Thursday to expand its operations into Muskingum County. The move will bring 30 new jobs to the area and repurpose the former Cardinal Health facility in Zanesville.
The expansion is being supported through a partnership with JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE), and the Zanesville-Muskingum County Port Authority, and includes a $75,000 JobsOhio Revitalization Grant to aid the transition.
“Sterling Teal is excited about this next phase of our company’s growth,” said John Walsh, CEO of Sterling Teal International. “Partnering with JobsOhio, OhioSE, and the Zanesville-Muskingum County Port Authority has been a positive experience. Their support has given us the confidence to make a large investment in Zanesville and expand our manufacturing footprint in Central Ohio.”
Sterling Teal, which formed in 2013 from the merger of Sterling Teal Corporation and Keystone Scent Company, has deep roots in the scent manufacturing industry. Keystone has produced the K29 ScentStone since 1949, using a porous ceramic technology known for long-lasting fragrance—now also featured in the company’s newer VentStone product line.
Sterling currently operates a facility in nearby Perry County, but steady growth over the past three years has prompted the need for additional space. The Zanesville location will help the company meet demand, secure new contracts, and prepare for future expansion.
“We are pleased to be part of Sterling Teal’s growth story as they expand into Muskingum County,” said Matt Abbott, President and CEO of OhioSE. “Advanced manufacturing continues to be a strength in our region, and this investment builds on that momentum.”
The new site will be outfitted with modern equipment to support Sterling Teal’s product lines, with hiring expected to begin soon.
“Sterling Teal’s investment and job creation is fabulous news for Muskingum County,” said Eric Reed, Executive Director of the Zanesville-Muskingum County Port Authority. “This expansion highlights confidence in our skilled workforce and underscores our community’s commitment to supporting industrial growth.”
JobsOhio’s Revitalization Program, which is helping fund the project, supports the redevelopment of underutilized sites across the state. By providing grants and loans, the program aims to return vacant or underused properties to productive use more efficiently and effectively.
For more information on Sterling Teal International, visit www.sterlingteal.com.
