Indiana Governor Mike Braun announced on May 28 that Merrell Bros. Inc., an environmental services company specializing in sustainable biosolids management, will expand its headquarters operations in Kokomo with a $16.5 million investment and the creation of 35 new high-wage jobs by the end of 2028.
“Across the state, Indiana entrepreneurs and small businesses like Merrell Bros. are thriving. Indiana ranks top five nationally for small business survival, highlighting the work ethic and resiliency of Hoosiers. Merrell Bros. was founded right here more than 40 years ago and continues to invest and create new, good-paying jobs in Howard County while serving customers across the country,” Governor Mike Braun said.
The company will construct and equip a 40,000-square-foot expansion at its longstanding Kokomo facility, more than doubling its manufacturing and administrative office footprint. The increased space is intended to support expanded manufacturing capabilities for biosolids treatment technologies to meet rising demand from municipalities, industries, and agricultural operations nationwide. Construction is scheduled to begin this year as Merrell Bros., established in 1982, actively recruits for positions including senior accountants, engineers, fabricators, CAD designers, project managers, and operations staff with average wages reported at over 50% higher than the Howard County average.
“We are grateful to our state and local partners for their ongoing commitment to investing in our community. This support enables us to grow our operations and serve customers across the country from our home base in Howard County. Although Merrell Bros. has a national presence, our foundation is here, and we appreciate the support that allows us to continue expanding locally. We look forward to the next phase of growth and the opportunities ahead,” Karson Merrell, chief financial officer of Merrell Bros., said.
Merrell Bros., which employs more than 200 professionals serving clients across 39 states from offices in Indiana as well as Florida and Texas, offers waste management solutions such as transportation, dewatering/cleaning services, land application projects, and farm drainage systems using seven U.S.-patented technologies aimed at sustainable outcomes.
“Merrell Bros. has been a valued part of the Howard County business community for decades, and we’re proud to see their continued growth right here at home. Their continued expansion is a strong reflection of the kind of environment that exists in Howard County and across Indiana where innovation, investment, and long-term success are supported,” Lori Dukes, president & CEO of Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance said.
Braun contributed to public service through roles on school boards; achieved growth into a national entity employing thousands; championed over forty bills that became law during his Senate term; has been married for forty-nine years raising four children; won election first as U.S. Senator then governor; graduated summa cum laude with an economics degree from Wabash College before earning an MBA from Harvard Business School, according to the official website.
