In this special episode of Galesburg's Morning news, Doug Hankes, Galesburg native and chief operating officer of Western Smokehouse Partners, revealed how the world’s largest producer of better-for-you meat snacks is transforming two local landmarks into high-tech production hubs—creating 200–230 new jobs and investing $72 million in our community.
Key Highlights from the Interview:
Monmouth Blvd. (former Maytag): The $50 million plant began production in September 2025, already running a second shift ahead of schedule due to demand. It’s dedicated to Sweetwood Fatty brand pork & beef sticks for one major customer. At full capacity, it will produce millions of sticks daily. 150–180 new full-time, benefit-eligible jobs—still hiring now.
West Main (original Thrushwood): The $22 million upgrade wraps up this month (October 2025) with new automation, packaging lines, and capacity. Adding 50 new jobs (packaging, quality, maintenance).
Why Galesburg? Hankes: “The people here have pride in what they do … the right workforce, infrastructure, and support from the city and KCAP made it the clear choice.” The Maytag shell was perfect for food-grade build-out.
Corporate HQ Stays Here: Despite 7 plants nationwide, Galesburg remains the heart—now with over 400 local employees when both expansions are complete.
Production Snapshot: WSP makes 4 million meat sticks daily across its network—on pace for 1.2 billion in 2026. The 48-hour process: grind, season, stuff, smoke, cut, pack.
Culture & Careers: “We want you to have a career, not just a job,” says Hankes. Internal promotions are the norm. Apply at WSpartners.com, job boards, or scan QR codes at the plants.
Future Outlook: After rapid growth, the next 3–5 years focus on steady, sustainable expansion and new product innovation (think zero-sugar, multi-packs, shelf-stable cheese sticks).
“It’s personal. Galesburg gave so much to me and so many others. We’re investing back to create careers for the next generation.” — WSP COO Doug Hankes on giving back.
