PIERRE, S.D. – Custom Touch Homes celebrated its latest expansion today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its facility in Madison. The expansion added 48,000 square feet of production space, 2,000 square feet of office space, and doubled the company’s production capacity.

Pat Costello, commissioner of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) said he couldn’t be more pleased to see the company expand its presence in South Dakota.

“Custom Touch Homes is just one example of a South Dakota company that is doing well,” Costello said. “I am excited to see this company develop, and look forward to furthering our relationship as Custom Touch Homes continues to grow and expand.”

The expansion, which was announced one year ago, took about 11 months to complete, and Custom Touch Homes obtained a $720,000 REDI (Revolving Economic Development & Initiative) Fund loan from the Governor’s Office of Economic Development to assist in the $2.6 million expansion.

The company builds custom homes inside the plant from start to finish. The indoor setting allows homes to be built without time delays or with materials that have been weathered by the elements. All Custom Touch Homes are Energy Star rated.

Scott Larson, owner, said that South Dakota’s agricultural-based background has been an asset to the company.

“South Dakota’s economy has really been a boost to Custom Touch Homes,” said Larson. “There are a lot of farmers and developers throughout the state doing projects, which drives demand up and was a major factor in our decision to expand.”

Custom Touch Homes has been a part of the Madison community since 1996, and contracts with a number of local companies including: Montgomery’s Furniture, Rosebud Manufacturing, Dakota Fixture and Cabinet, Timmer Supply, Homestead Do It Center and others for floor coverings, furnishings, countertops and building materials.

About the REDI Fund: The REDI Fund is a low-interest loan fund is available to start-up firms, businesses that are expanding or relocating, and local economic development corporations. The REDI Fund provides up to 45 percent of a project’s total cost. http://www.sdreadytowork.com/finance

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