Fiocchi to Build New Primer Factory in Arkansas
Good news — this should eventually help ease the primer shortage. Fiocchi will be building a new primer production center in Arkansas. The new facility will be one of only six primer manufacturing operations in the USA and the only dedicated lead-free primer plant in the world. Fiocchi announced the selection of a 281-acre site in the Port of Little Rock, Arkansas for a new ammunition primer manufacturing facility. Representing a $41.5 million investment and a 120-person workforce expansion, the new primer production center will, eventually, provide much-needed primer supply relief for handloaders. The primers will also be used in Fiocchi’s factory ammo.
Maurizio Negro, Fiocchi Group CEO stated: “This groundbreaking represents another significant milestone in Fiocchi’s long-term plan to strengthen and expand our manufacturing capabilities and to bolster primer supplies not only for Fiocchi products but also to increase supplies for the ammunition manufacturing industry at large.” Part of Fiocchi’s vertical integration strategy, the new primer facility will allow the company to meet internal primer supply needs and provide second-sourcing for industry contracts.
New Plant Will Produce Lead-Free Primers
Fiocchi is a leader in lead-free and heavy-metal-free primers and is the only manufacturer of lead-free primers to receive NATO qualification. The new Arkansas facility will follow Fiocchi’s other commitments to sustainable technology: lead-free projectiles, non-toxic shot, and biodegradable components.
Arkansas Leaders Praise Fiocchi Decision to Build Facility in Arkansas
Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson stated: “I am pleased to celebrate Fiocchi’s growth, which is also a demonstration of the continued expansion of the firearms and ammunition industry in our state. Fiocchi’s decision to grow in Arkansas speaks to the significance of maintaining the business-friendly climate that Arkansas is becoming so well known for.” The new facility will bring 120 jobs to the Little Rock area.
Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston praised Fiocchi’s decision to build a new plant in Arkansas: “For more than a century, Fiocchi has been a leader in its industry, and we have witnessed firsthand their commitment and excellence in business. This expansion will help Fiocchi reach more customers as they continue to strengthen their brand[.]” Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde concurred: “Fiocchi joins a growing list of world-class international businesses choosing to locate at the Port of Little Rock. Fiocchi is a leader in sustainable technology, and we are proud to welcome their investment in Pulaski County.”
For more information about Fiocchi ammunition and primers, including inquiries about available positions, visit FiocchiUSA.com.
Fiocchi of America is recalling various lots of 22-250 Remington and .243 Winchester centerfire rifle ammunition. There is a serious safety issue affecting certain lots of Fiocchi ammo types: 22250B, 22250HVD, 243SPB, 243HSB, and 243SPD. The problem involves the loading of multiple bullets in a single cartridge. If you have any Fiocchi ammo from the affected product lots listed below you should return it immediately. The following ammunition products are affected by this recall:
