Governor Polis and the Global Business Development Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced today that Toro, a leading worldwide provider of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment, has selected the Town of Frederick in Weld County, Colorado for expansion. In Frederick, the company is opening a new center of excellence for the research and development functions of their robotics division.
“Colorado is known for our leadership in advanced manufacturing and we are excited that Toro recognizes the opportunities for growth in Frederick, creating up to 45 good-paying jobs for Coloradans,” said Governor Polis.
Toro designs, manufactures, and markets lawn mowers, snow blowers, irrigation system supplies and other products for commercial, residential, agricultural and public sector uses. These products are distributed through a global network of professional distributors, dealers, rental stores and retailers in more than 125 countries. The company celebrated the opening of its new center of excellence at a ribbon cutting on January 19, 2024.
“Customer and environmental needs drive our innovation priorities with a focus on battery, autonomous and smart-connected solutions,” said John Hurst, senior director for The Toro Company’s Center for Technology, Research and Innovation. “This investment in the Frederick facility expands our operational capacity, enables us to add talent and further supports our efforts to provide innovative solutions to our global customers, making their jobs easier and more productive.”
In Frederick, Toro expects to create up to 45 net new jobs at an average annual wage of $106,889, which is 179.6% of the average annual wage in Weld County. The positions will include engineers, customer support, and technicians.
“Advanced manufacturing accounts for approximately 30% of Colorado’s economy. By choosing Weld County for expansion, Toro will continue to diversify this important industry and ensure that rural communities like Frederick benefit from good-paying jobs,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman.
In April 2023, the Colorado Economic Development Commission approved up to $519,626 in performance-based Job Growth Incentive Tax Credits for the company over an eight-year period. These incentives are contingent upon Toro, referred to as Project Columbia throughout the OEDIT review process, meeting net new job creation and salary requirements.
“This project exemplifies the essence of Community & Economic Vitality in the Town’s Strategic Plan. By attracting high-quality employers to the region, we are not only stimulating economic growth but also reaffirming Frederick’s position for innovative, cutting-edge opportunities that improve quality of life. Frederick has a growing community of advanced manufacturing that supports industries including aerospace, biosciences, and robotics,” said Tracie Crites, Town of Frederick Mayor. “Together we are shaping a thriving future for our community, one that promises limitless potential.”
“We are excited to mark the grand opening of The Toro Company’s new Autonomous Technology Hub in Frederick,” said Kevin Ross, Chair of the Weld County Commissioners. “This state-of-the-art facility is a testament to the advanced skills in robotics and technology that our Weld County workforce proudly embodies. It is not just about bringing innovative technology to the region; it is about harnessing the exceptional local talent to spur economic growth and create jobs in advanced industries. Congratulations to The Toro Company and to our partners at the Town of Frederick.”
In addition to Colorado, Toro also considered Minnesota, where it is headquartered, for expansion. The company currently has over 11,000 employees, 27 of whom are in Colorado.