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We have always believed that Rutherford County was one of the most desirable locations to work, live and play in the entire United States. Our natural gifts of nature and the friendly and great Rutherford County people who offer a tremendous work ethic, is and always has been an ongoing asset. As the single, all encompassing mill business closed down, the county has been going through some rough times. Now, our constant belief in the county, its’ people, great location, and natural assets are being discovered.
First Facebook saw the advantage and opportunity and came. Then, the Horsehead Corporation picked us out of more than 100 possibilities and decided we were the one! Now, Valley Fine Foods of California has selected Rutherford County for its’ East Coast Operations. Valley Fine Foods will create 305 jobs in the next three years and offer an average annual individual wage of $31,636! That figure is $2,464 above the present Rutherford County annual wage. Also, Valley Fine Foods will offer great benefits. It is a company known for taking care of its’ loyal employees. . . at one point even offering things such as low interest loans to help when needed. Also, a big annual and generous holiday party every year, regardless of the economic conditions, is held. Valley Fine Foods is very sensitive and caring concerning its’ staff. Perhaps this is an outgrowth of the founders of the young 20 year old company.
The founders are originally from Taiwan. Chuck Tu and his wife, Mei came to America in 1972. They came to Kansas State University to do graduate studies in food service. Both had a long history in pasta. They noticed that there was a definite need for filled pasta (ravioli) and one with high quality and all natural ingredients. They decided to fill the need and it worked! First they established Pasta Perfecta in 1984 and later sold it. Pasta Perfecta became DiGiorno before Kraft decided to concentrate on pizza. In 1992 the Tu family started Valley Fine Foods using the brand name Pasta Prima. They established a gourmet line of pastas and sauces - all natural, organic and produced in a green friendly atmosphere. Valley Fine Foods immense growth is attributed to the acceptance of their high quality product. They constantly strive to be the absolute best and refuse to comprise.
Chuck and Mei Tu have two sons, Ryan and Wayne. Two years ago, Ryan became President and Wayne became Director of Marketing. Ryan and his wife, Louisa, have just been blessed with a little boy. He is seven months old and his name is Connor.
When Ryan told his father that he would like to establish an East Coast operation, he was given approval as long as he did a cautious approach. With establishment of the new plant in Forest City, Valley Fine Foods is seeking to put its’ footprint on the entire East Coast. The purpose is to introduce Pasta Prima to retailers, restaurants and institutions. They even assist buyers with recipes and ways to use their top quality product.
Without a doubt, Valley Fine Foods is on a dedicated mission. They want to continue to be the best and it is our benefit that they have selected Forest City, Rutherford County, North Carolina. We could easily say it’s a “win win situation”. We look forward to adding their influence and presence to the new success stories of Rutherford County.
