Editor’s Note: This article was originally posted Feb. 1 but has been updated to reflect new information. It will continue to be updated as more info is released.
The Durrett Test Kitchen (DTK) has chosen Columbia for its new location, the City of Columbia recently announced in a press release. The company will move its corporate offices to Columbia and will begin manufacturing operations.
The owners, Chef Barry Durrett and his wife, LeAnne, from neighboring Greensburg, said they are excited about moving their business to Columbia. The location will be at property owned by Downey Properties LLC on Campbellsville Road.
“Our move to Columbia is largely due to the hard work of Mayor [Pamela] Hoots and her team at the city, as well as Dr. Max Downey and his wife, Patricia, owners of Downey Properties LLC,” Chef Durrett said.
The plant will manufacture sandwiches and pot pies and is in the process of development of further designs for meals and packaging. DTK will be FDA approved and will apply for USDA inspection and will be “Kentucky Proud”-designated through the Kentucky Dept. of Agriculture and SQF (Safe Quality Food) certified.
“We will be running production lines and have a full test kitchen on-site,” Durrett said.
The plant is anticipating to hire approximately 50 people from the community at a competitive wage, according to the release.
“We aim to be the employer that people want to work for but have to wait for a position to become available,” Durrett said.
Chef Durrett has traveled throughout the country participating in national culinary competitions. His awards include the 2019 American Pie Council National Pie Contest, Blue Ribbon Pizza Pot Pie, Blue Ribbon Chicken Pot Pie, and Commercial Division First Place.
“We are proud to be doing business in Columbia” Durrett said. “We are looking forward to being a part of the community.”
The company plans to begin production in the near future following modifications necessary for the business.
Applications are now available at Columbia City Hall. Come by city hall at 116 Campbellsville Street during regular office hours. The company will pick up applications and contact the candidates.
