At least two local firms are preparing for a boost should the U.S. strike Afghanistan.

        The federal government and its contractors have asked Wornick Co. of Blue Ash, and HeaterMeals Co. of Springdale, to prepare for a potentially massive increase in production of ready-to-eat meals and supplies.

At HeaterMeals Co. in Springdale, 46 full-time employees pack the company's product. (Michael Snyder photo) | ZOOM |

        “We're fortunate to be able to help out,” said Tim Zimmerman, president of HeaterMeals Co. “I know a lot of ways Americans are trying to figure out ways to contribute. This way we're able to help.”

        The two firms haven't received orders yet, but both expect to rev up production soon.

        “We're planning our strategies right now, waiting on final direction from the government on how much and how fast,” said Ronald Davis, president and chief executive officer of Wornick Co.'s Prepared Foods Division.

        The Pentagon on Wednesday ordered combat aircraft to move to bases in the Middle East, the first sign that the U.S. is preparing to strike following last week's terrorist attacks. Last week, 50,000 reserve troops were called to active duty.

        Wornick is adding 100 positions to its Blue Ash staff of 430 to handle government demand as well as increased private sector sales.

        HeaterMeals anticipates adding a second shift if military demand requires. The firm has 46 full-time positions, but Mr. Zimmerman said it's too early to tell whether he'll need to add jobs.

        HeaterMeals has already provided meals for rescue workers at the World Trade Center. Firefighters and others have been combing through debris round-the-clock.

        The main military product that HeaterMeals provides is a flameless heater used to warm food rations in minutes. The product includes iron, magnesium and sodium that produces heat through a chemical reaction when combined with water.

        HeaterMeals also makes ready-to-eat meals, but it has no contracts to provide MREs for the military. It's marketing meals to the private sector.

        Likewise, Wornick's growth has come from private sector sales. The firm has 32 entrees and side dishes ranging from ravioli to applesauce.

        A few years ago, the firm depended on military sales for 100 percent of its revenues. Now, about 30 percent of Wornick's sales are private sector.

        The products are sold nationwide at Walgreens drug stores.

        Both firms gained experience increasing production rapidly during the Gulf War a decade ago.

        HeaterMeals beefed up production to support 245,000 troops in the Saudi Arabian desert.

        “Like everybody else, we're preparing to mobilize,” Mr. Zimmerman said. “We need to move at a moment's notice.”
       

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