Foam Solutions LLC will open its foam fabrication operations in Owensboro this October, filling the void left by the closure of Hickory Springs Manufacturing Company’s Owensboro location last month.
The new venture will retain much of the former workforce, continue serving the same customer base, and work with familiar suppliers, ensuring a smooth transition.
Dana Collins, founder and principal officer of Foam Solutions, shared her connection with Owensboro and her dedication to the business.
“After moving my family to Owensboro eleven years ago for a job opportunity, I discovered great happiness in leading a team of talented individuals and building meaningful friendships through my work and my children’s sports and school activities. When a well-established foam fabricator decided to leave the Owensboro market, my husband and I realized that we had an opportunity to continue the work I am passionate about alongside a team that has taught me valuable lessons in leadership and a customer base that I’ve been honored to serve,” Collins said. “This opportunity allows us to make a positive impact on a community that we care deeply about.”
Foam Solutions will provide custom foam products and upholstery supplies to customers in Southern Indiana, Northern Tennessee, and Cincinnati, Ohio. Collins brings over 15 years of experience in foam fabrication and manufacturing leadership to the new business, employing up to 20 former workers from the previous operation.
Collins expressed her gratitude to the Owensboro community for supporting the transition.
“I’m extremely thankful and humbled by the support and guidance that our community has extended me during this process. It is with great appreciation that I acknowledge the instrumental role played by the following teams in support of my project. Thank you to State Representative DJ Johnson for his efforts in helping to preserve jobs in Kentucky. The assistance of the GRADD team and its Board members, particularly Colie Smith, for providing an outline on how they could support my project. I am deeply grateful for the guidance and encouragement of the GOEDC team, with the leadership and direction of Jamie Johnson and Claude Bacon. Lastly, thank you to the City of Owensboro, its commissioners, and the Daviess County Fiscal Court. The encouragement and collaboration demonstrated by these individuals and teams have been invaluable, and I’m truly thankful for their support.”
GOEDC President and CEO Claude Bacon praised Collins’ leadership and commitment to retaining community jobs.
“From the moment Dana visited GOEDC for support, we knew this was an impactful project for our community. She is an entrepreneur with a service leader mindset. Through Foam Solutions, Dana is saving a large percentage of jobs that would have otherwise been lost,” Bacon said. “We also experienced a special collaboration of community partners that continues to prove that Owensboro finds a way to get it done.”
Daviess County Judge Executive Charlie Castlen highlighted the importance of the local workforce in supporting Foam Solutions.
“Daviess County Fiscal Court is excited that Foam Solutions recognizes the tremendous workforce that exists in our community – a workforce that is ready to step forward to support the Foam Solutions’ journey. We are proud to support the entrepreneurial spirit behind this business. It is not only a win for our local economy but for the entire region that will be served by Foam Solutions,” Castlen said.
Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson also expressed his support for the new venture.
“We are always happy to help retain employment in our community and support the growth of local businesses like Foam Solutions LLC,” Watson said.
Foam Solutions will operate Monday through Friday, maintaining the same quality and delivery standards that customers have come to rely on. The company aims to deliver consistent, high-quality foam products to furniture manufacturers and other industries.
Bacon said Foam Solutions’ launch signals Owensboro’s continued ability to retain and nurture its skilled workforce, bolstering the long-term sustainability of the region’s economy.
