State Helps Reston Company Expand Operation, Create Jobs

RESTON, VA — Reston-based OmMade Peanut Butter will invest $300,000 to establish a gourmet peanut butter manufacturing center in Fairfax County, according to a release from Gov. Ralph Northam's office.

Started by Radhika Murari, the woman- and minority-owned company, will source 30,000 pounds of peanuts from Virginia farmers over the next three years. The new operation will be built in one of the the county's target redevelopment areas and include a storefront to its production facility.

“Supporting innovative agribusinesses like OmMade Peanut Butter is key to spreading economic growth and opportunity to all parts of the Commonwealth,” Northam, in the release. “With bold and unique flavors, high-quality natural ingredients, and a commitment to locally-sourced peanuts, the company is a natural fit for Virginia. I also want to commend Fairfax County for its commitment to growing the next generation of Virginia’s business leaders.”

Murari began making peanut butter almost eight years ago in order to create a preservative-free snack that was healthy and delicious. She started selling OmMade Peanut Butter at the Fairfax County Farmers Market, which led to sales online and at local Whole Foods stores. The new project will allow Murari to move her operation from her home kitchen to a commercial facility. The effort will create five new jobs.

“There is one simple reason for the success of OmMade Peanut Butter: Virginia peanuts,” Murari said, in the release. “Because of the unmatched flavor of Virginia peanuts, OmMade Peanut Butter is not only the best-tasting peanut butter on the market, it is also extremely healthy. I appreciate this support from Fairfax County and the Commonwealth, which will enable OmMade Peanut Butter to set up a commercial production facility and allow for nationwide sales expansion.”

Virginia is partnering on this project with Fairfax County and the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, via the Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Fund.

Northam approved a $25,000 grant from the AFID Fund, which is overseen by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, to secure the project for the state. Fairfax County will provide matching funds.

“I am so pleased that a Fairfax County, woman-owned, small business, founded by long-time Reston resident Radhika Murari, will benefit from this grant and bring more jobs to the county,” Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Jeffrey McKay said, in the release. “This is a difficult time for businesses, especially those looking to grow, so it’s exciting to be able to lift up OmMade Peanut Butter, a Made in Fairfax operation, and showcase the creativity and quality that Fairfax has to offer.”