DEFIANCE, OHIO — A groundbreaking announcement for Defiance County has emerged, marking the largest job creation project in the county’s history. First Quality Tissue Midwest is set to build an ultra-premium towel and tissue production facility in Northwest Ohio, with a nearly $1 billion investment. This monumental project will not only transform the local economy but will also bring hundreds of new jobs to the region.
The new facility, which will occupy more than 1,000 acres just outside downtown Defiance, will play a major role in the county’s economic future. Local leaders have described the project as a game-changer, with the potential to affect generations to come.
“This is the highest investment the county has ever seen, close to a billion dollars, which is incredibly exciting,” said Erika Willitzer, the executive director of Defiance County Economic Development. “The project will create 400 new jobs with phase one and phase two, and there are plans for additional phases that could significantly expand the facility in the coming years.”
The $984 million investment will not only generate significant job growth but will also contribute to a projected $22 million in new annual payroll by 2032. The facility will produce a range of hygiene, paper, and packaging products, helping First Quality Tissue expand its operations in the region.
In addition to its economic impact, the new plant will provide financial support to two local school districts. The Fairview School District and Defiance City Schools will both benefit from the investment, as the site straddles both districts.
The project’s location was also a key factor in Defiance County’s success in securing the investment. Willitzer noted that the area boasts excellent infrastructure, with access to utilities, rail lines, and U.S. Route 24. Its proximity to Fort Wayne and Toledo further solidified its appeal to First Quality Tissue.
“The site is perfectly positioned,” Willitzer explained. “We have great infrastructure with access to natural gas, electric utilities, and rail, which makes it an ideal location for this type of investment.”
As work is expected to begin later this year, Defiance County is already preparing for the economic and social changes that will follow. The re-zoning process, which will transition the land from agriculture to industrial use, is expected to be completed soon, allowing for public hearings and feedback from local residents.
Though there is no set date for construction to begin, Willitzer confirmed that First Quality Tissue hopes to break ground sometime in 2025. The company is already working with the county’s economic development office to begin the hiring process for the new positions.
Ohio was in competition with several other states to land the facility, and the success of Defiance County in securing this investment is seen as a testament to the region’s strong economic potential and strategic location.
“This investment is going to bring lasting change to Defiance County,” Willitzer said. “It’s not just about jobs, but about transforming the area’s future for generations to come.”