Governor Moore Announces New Saval Foods Headquarters and Distribution Center in Howard County, Promising Job Growth

According to a press release from the office of Governor Wes Moore, Saval Foods, a family-owned foodservice distribution company, has commenced construction on a new headquarters and distribution center in Columbia, Maryland. The significant expansion project, undertaken in collaboration with Howard Hughes Communities, will result in a 230,000-square-foot facility encompassing both a state-of-the-art distribution center and a multi-story office building. This development is set to retain the company’s existing 391 full-time employees and generate an additional 107 new full-time positions in Maryland over the next four years, underscoring a commitment to bolstering the state’s economy and workforce.

The new facility, situated in the Columbia Gateway area, represents a strategic consolidation of Saval Foods’ operations. It will bring together the company’s corporate offices and two existing Howard County businesses: Saval Foodservice, its primary broadline food distribution arm, and 1932 Specialty Produce & Meat, which specializes in fresh produce and pre-cut meats. This unified approach is intended to enhance operational efficiency and foster greater collaboration among teams, creating the necessary space for continued company expansion. The partnership with Howard Hughes Communities leverages Saval Foods’ extensive experience in food distribution with the latter’s proven track record in developing commercial properties that support business growth and long-term economic development.

Founded in 1932 as a modest family-run deli, Saval Foods has evolved over four generations into one of the Mid-Atlantic region’s leading broadline foodservice distributors. The company serves a diverse clientele, including restaurants, delicatessens, caterers, and other food service establishments, providing a wide array of products such as fresh-cut meat, produce, and seafood. During the construction phase of the new headquarters, Saval Foods will maintain operations at its four current facilities located in Howard County, Baltimore County, and Baltimore City. This expansion is viewed as a critical milestone for the company, enabling it to accommodate future growth and strengthen its capacity to support independent restaurants throughout the region.

The state of Maryland is providing significant support for this expansion project. Saval Foods is eligible for a conditional loan of 1.75 million through Advantage Maryland, an initiative managed by the Maryland Department of Commerce. Furthermore, the project site’s designation within an Enterprise Zone makes the company eligible for state tax credits, offering financial incentives for its investment. At the local level, Saval Foods is set to receive an 800,000 repayable loan from the Howard County Economic Development Authority’s Catalyst Fund. The company is also positioned to receive up to $175,000 in grants specifically allocated for workforce training and development programs, further emphasizing the commitment to job creation and employee advancement.

This expansion signifies a substantial investment in Maryland’s economy and reflects Saval Foods’ enduring commitment to the state. By consolidating its operations and investing in a modern distribution center and headquarters, Saval Foods is poised to enhance its service capabilities and contribute to the economic vitality of Howard County and the broader Mid-Atlantic region. The project’s success is expected to generate new career opportunities and reinforce Howard County’s reputation as a favorable location for business investment and economic progress.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of Governor Wes Moore

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