Bowling Green, KY, Dec. 18, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AEP Industries, Inc., a leader in polyethylene films and plastic packaging, purchased their building and completed an expansion of their manufacturing facility in South Central Kentucky.

While the original incentive application projected a $16 million dollar investment and the creation of 35 jobs over a period of three years, the facility was able to surpass the original scope in just one year.

"Because of the opportunity and success that we have experienced in Bowling Green and South Central Kentucky, we were able to create 33 more jobs than we originally projected. This exceeded all expectations that we originally had," stated James Rafferty, Vice President and Treasurer (AEP).

"This is an exciting time for AEP Industries, Bowling Green and all of Kentucky," said Gov. Steve Beshear. "The fact that AEP was able to nearly double its intended employment goal is proof that Kentucky's economy is growing and local businesses are exceeding expectations. I want to congratulate AEP Industries and wish them even more success in the future."

AEP's portfolio currently includes more than 15,000 products and they provide a wide range of packaging solutions to industries that manufacturer goods such as food and beverage, agricultural and industrial products.

"AEP has been a long standing member of the South Central Kentucky business community, "stated Brad Howard, Chamber Board Chairman. "Their expansion is just another example of how they continue to flourish here and provide an array of positive benefits for our region. We are privileged to have companies like AEP, who are leaders in their industries and we congratulate them on their continued achievements."

AEP has been serving the plastics industry for more than 40 years and established operations in Bowling Green nearly 8 years ago. They currently have 180 employees at this facility.

"AEP has impacted the city of Bowling Green for nearly a decade. They have provided not only jobs for the citizens here, but an investment in our local economy. They are the perfect example of an exemplary corporate citizen and we are grateful for their continued confidence in our region," stated Mayor Bruce Wilkerson.

"Driven by our existing companies, Warren County has experienced strong economic development success in the past few years," stated Judge Executive Michael Buchanon. "We greatly appreciate the confidence of AEP to invest and create jobs in our region.  They are a shining example of how advanced manufacturing can thrive here in Warren County. We are honored to be a part of their success and we salute them for their accomplishments."

AEP is the sixth economic development announcement for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce this year for a total investment of more than $242 million and the creation of more than 380 jobs.

AEP has immediate openings for printing press operators, maintenance technicians, and entry level production positions.  You may apply in person or via email at hrky@aepinc.com.

For more information on AEP Industries, visit www.aepinc.com.

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About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce:

Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is a 5-Star Accredited Chamber by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and was named the 2009 Chamber of the Year by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. As the fourth largest chamber in Kentucky, the Chamber serves as a premier business advocate for its more than 1,100 partners and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. Its primary goals are to promote growth and success in the business community, reaching its small business partners and those in large industries alike. With leadership programs, governmental relations projects, educational initiatives and involvement opportunities, the Chamber aims to support the community and its neighbors in order to enhance the business climate and continue to grow the region.