Minnesota Company to move into FM facility

FORT MADISON – A Minnesota manufacturer has announced plans to move into the former Independent Can Co. building on the city’s northeast corner.
According to Emily Benjamin, president and CEO of Lee County Economic Development Group, Virnig Manufacturing Inc., headquartered in Rice, Minn., is investing about $11 million in the development of the Fort Madison facility. The project is expected to add 35 full-time jobs, 32 of which are incentives by Iowa Economic Development Authority, at $21.64 per hour through local and state incentives.
Virnig produces attachments for skid steers, compact tractors, compact wheel loaders, mini skid steers, and mini excavators.
“This project reflects exactly what Connect Lee County is all about: building a stronger future through strategic job creation, private investment, and a united approach to economic development,” Benjamin said.
“Paired with the exciting expansions planned by existing industries in 2025 and 2026, this is another clear signal that Lee County is on the rise. The continued investment from our industrial partners shows they’re not just doing business here — they’re helping shape the future of our communities.”
Tim Gobble, director of economic development at LCEDG,  said the building acquisition is anticipated to be complete later this month. Virnig plans some building improvements and modifications then equipment will be installed and operational by late 2026 or early 2027. 
Independent Can ceased operations in Fort Madison in late 2023. Gobble said they began working closely with LCEDG to market the building to potential suitors.
One prospect ended up going a different direction before Virnig began talks locally.
“We're grateful to Independent Can Company for looping in LCEDG from the beginning,” he said.
Gobble said Virnig qualifies for a little over $340,000 through  the state's high-quality jobs program, and although now dormant, Fort Madison Economic Development Corp. Board has remaining assets and will be providing a cash incentive based on jobs created meeting or exceeding the county average of $21.64 per hour. That will be determined based on initial job hires, and remaining hires within the first 12 months. 
“We are thrilled to welcome Virnig Manufacturing to Lee County’s robust and growing manufacturing sector. This investment brings high-quality jobs to our residents and supports economic momentum across the region,” Gobble said.
“We’re also incredibly grateful to have had a beautiful, modern building to market. Our thanks go to Independent Can Company for including us in the conversation early on, when they made the decision to relocate. Their partnership gave us the chance to recruit another strong manufacturer to the area.
Gobble said expansions planned by existing industries in 2025 and 2026 provide a clear signal that Lee County is on the rise.
Benjamin said this also shows the capabilities of the restructured LCEDG.
“This announcement is a powerful reminder that combining FMEDC, KEDC, and LCEDG into one unified organization was the right move. It allowed us to operate more efficiently, respond quickly, and seize this opportunity for Fort Madison and all of Lee County,” Benjamin said.