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.

[caption id="attachment_688335" align="aligncenter" width="773"] Doug Hankes, Galesburg native and Chief Operating Officer of Western Smokehouse Partners. (WGIL)[/caption]