New Tessenderlo Kerley Plant Brings Innovation and Opportunity to Defiance, Ohio
Thursday, August 21, 2025
DEFIANCE, OHIO, August 21, 2025 – Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc. proudly celebrated the grand opening of its newest liquid fertilizer production facility in Defiance, Ohio—a major milestone in the company’s commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture across North America.
Strategically located on a 50-acre site, the state-of-the-art facility will produce essential crop nutrients including Thio-Sul®, KTS®, and K-Row 23®, supporting farmers and growers throughout the U.S. and Canada. The facility strengthens cross-border access to high-quality fertilizers and reinforces Tessenderlo Kerley’s dedication to environmentally responsible farming.
“This facility is beyond infrastructure—it’s a symbol of our promise to farmers, growers and communities,” said Russell Sides, Executive Vice President of Tessenderlo Kerley. “We’re proud to expand our footprint in Defiance and deliver the reliable, science-driven nutrients needed to grow healthy, productive crops sustainably.”
The Defiance facility is equipped with advanced production and distribution capabilities, ensuring efficient delivery through Tessenderlo Kerley’s trusted network. It also brings new jobs and economic growth to the region.
This achievement was made possible by the generosity and foresight of the Plummer family, whose dedication to Defiance helped pave the way for the industrial park where the facility now stands.
“Their vision laid the groundwork for something truly transformative,” Sides added. “We’re honored to be part of Defiance’s future and grateful for the warm welcome.”
“The opening of Tessenderlo Kerley’s new facility is a win for Defiance and the entire region,” said Mayor Mike McCann. “It brings quality jobs, strengthens our economy, and reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and responsible growth. We’re proud to partner with a company that values innovation and community.”
With full-scale operations now underway, Tessenderlo Kerley looks forward to growing alongside the Defiance community—building a stronger, more sustainable future for agriculture.
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About Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc.
Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc. is a leading producer of liquid fertilizers and an established leader in the production and marketing of crop nutrition and crop protection products used in agriculture. Part of the Tessenderlo Group, founded in 1919, and The Kerley Chemical Company, founded in 1947, Tessenderlo Kerley is dedicated to producing high-quality fertilizers that promote environmental sustainability and profitability for growers.
In addition to agriculture, Tessenderlo Kerley specializes in specialty products for the mining, water treatment, and process chemical industries. They have 14 manufacturing plants across the USA and 1 in Canada.
Director of Marketing and Communications, Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc.
Stacy Dill
T: +1.602.346.1942