Posted May 1, 2024
It is the beginning of a new era in Suwannee County Economic Development as we hosted the much-anticipated groundbreaking ceremony for Wave Armor (formerly known as Project Wave). Rhino Inc. is constructing a new manufacturing facility in Suwannee County to expand the manufacturing capacity of its Wave Armor line of products.
Wave Armor produces floating docks with numerous available accessories to maximize space and make it easily accessible for water activities like boating, jet skiing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and swimming. The Minnesota-based company is building a 213,543-square-foot facility adjacent to the Suwannee County Catalyst Site near the Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 90 interchange.
The company is making an estimated $20 million capital investment with the Suwannee County plant, which is expected to create 50 new jobs initially. Rhino Inc., the parent company of Wave Armor, currently manufactures products in Minnesota. Suwannee County will be their South Eastern regional headquarters.
The owner initially contacted the North Florida Economic Development Partnership, which then notified local economic development offices about the company’s interest. After the first meeting took place three years ago, Wave Armor has officially broken ground in Suwannee County. The waterfront lifestyle products made by Wave Armor are a natural fit for our community. That fit came as part of a collaborative effort on the local, regional, and state levels.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by approximately 125 people. The program speakers included Florida Commerce Deputy Secretary Jason Mahon, Senator Corey Simon, Director of the North Florida Economic Development Partnership Jeff Hendry, owner Rick Johanneck, President Jennifer Johanneck-Eystad, Commissioner Travis Land, Commissioner Don Hale, and Economic Development Director Jimmy Norris. Attendees were able to tour the Wave Armor display trailer which held exhibits of their floating docks for boats, jet skis, pontoon boats, kayaks, and more.
We are truly grateful to everyone who attended and supported the groundbreaking ceremony.
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