DECATUR-Big Heart Pet Brands of Inc. has been awarded a $30,000 grant to increase efficiency and production. The grant will be used to train 150 employees. The training, in addition to making the company more productive, will improve employees’ ability for advancement and pay increases.
“Improvement is a never-ending process whether you are an individual or a large company,” Bentley said. “The
Robert Bentley
determination to do things better is a vital part of the success of our nation and I am pleased to support Alabamians who continue working to achieve a higher standard.”
Employees in the company’s maintenance and production departments will receive specialized on-site training for a year beginning in July. Big Heart Pet Brands produces a number of dry pet-food products marketed under the names 
of Meow Mix, Alley Cat, Kibbles N’Bits and Gravy Train.
Big Heart is contributing $37,295 toward training costs, which includes regular salaries and benefits for employees.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is managing the grant from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Labor. ADECA administers numerous programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, workforce development, water resource management and recreation.
Bentley notified Steve Chambers, plant manager, that the grant had been approved.
