LG&E and KU welcomes new business customer to service territory.
A new company, Stellar Snacks, recently celebrated its grand opening in West Louisville, marking the most significant economic development project in that area in more than 20 years. Governor Andy Beshear and Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg joined others for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, including representatives from LG&E and KU, to celebrate the $137 million community investment that will create up to 350 jobs.
Stellar Snacks distributes its products to more than 5,000 grocery and retail stores nationwide and are also offered as in-flight snacks on Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines and Emirates. The company was founded in 2019 by mother and daughter Elisabeth and Gina Galvin and is the first woman-owned pretzel manufacturer in the U.S. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Elisabeth Galvin thanked LG&E and KU for their efforts to prepare the facility for business, praising the company’s support of the project.
“We’re proud to have played our part as the energy provider in the successful launch of Stellar Snacks here in West Louisville, which will have a dramatic, positive impact on the economy of this entire area,” said LG&E and KU President John Crockett. “With this new, first-class manufacturing facility, Stellar Snacks had specific energy needs and timelines, and we’re glad we could meet those needs safely and reliably.”
Assistance in getting the company up and running included Gas Operations installing more than 500 feet of high-pressure main and service piping and an industrial metering station at the 434,000-square foot building on Dixie Highway. “The collaborative efforts from Gas Operations, Gas Engineering, Gas Inspection, System Regulation and Operations, and business partner Miller Pipeline, played a crucial role in overcoming supply chain issues while maintaining safety, compliance, clear communication, and effective project management,” said Paul Stratman, director, Gas Operations and Compliance Services.
Stellar Snacks, which also operates a manufacturing facility in Carson City, Nevada, conducted a national search for their newest facility and found Louisville offered many benefits. “Because of the central location, proximity to UPS for shipping, and workforce talent, Louisville was an ideal spot for Stellar Snacks,” said Roxann Fry, acting manager, Business and Economic Development. “Plus, LG&E and KU’s reliable energy and our dedicated approach to supporting business customers makes our territory very attractive to prospective companies looking to expand or relocate their operations.”
The Galvins attended job fairs at churches in West Louisville, met with local leaders and hosted a job fair to attract potential employees. “From the very beginning, we made a conscious decision to invest in the talent that exists right here in Louisville,” said Elisabeth Galvin. “We’re proud that nearly half of our new team members currently live in West Louisville, where we operate, and some can even walk to work. With every milestone, we are committed to ensuring that our growth benefits the neighborhood and its residents, and we’re excited to continue this journey together.”
Jobs created at the Louisville operation consist of pretzel-makers, production team members, supervisors, engineers, maintenance leads, welders, mechanics, technicians and human resources administrators. In 2025, the company will expand its commitment to career development through partnerships with local community colleges and trade schools, providing real-world work experience and positions for students pursuing careers in industrial, electrical and robotic engineering.
