Strong sales results and growing demand for YUM soft baits has prompted parent company Pradco Outdoor Brands to add a third shift at the company's manufacturing facility in Fort Smith, Ark.
The additional shift created 25 permanent full-time jobs today, according to a release issued by the company, raising the total of new jobs to approximately 80 since YUM's production moved to Fort Smith in 2014.
"This growth is driven by demand," said Chad Warner, YUM brand manager. "YUM is one of the most popular soft baits for all types of fishing nationwide and sales continue to climb. We're thrilled to experience the progress and excited to support the local economy by adding more work force using area residents."
The number of plastics manufacturing machines has grown from eight to 12. The added shift allows YUM to produce soft baits 24 hours per day, five days per week. Jobs included in the expansion consist of all aspects of production, including supervisors and positions in manufacturing, packaging, warehousing and shipping.
