US – World renown Italian chocolate manufacturer Ferrero has announced that its North America subsidiary will build a chocolate production centre at an estimated cost of US$75 million.
The chocolate manufacturing centre – Ferrero’s first in North America – will be an expansion of the company’s facility in Bloomington, Illinois
Ferrero expects to start construction work on the project by spring 2021 and anticipates to add 70,000 square feet to the plant’s current footprint once the project is completed.
The centre will produce chocolate for products such as Ferrero Rocher, Crunch, 100Grand and Goobers that are made in North America.
Ferrero has been investing to expand its footprint and capabilities in North America and has so far opened new distribution centres in Georgia, Arizona and Pennsylvania and expanded its North American headquarters in New Jersey.
“We are…delighted to announce that construction will begin on Ferrero’s first chocolate manufacturing centre in North America – a key strategic market for us,” said Giovanni Ferrero, executive chairman of the Ferrero Group.
“This investment represents an important milestone as we continue to expand our offering of high-quality products for consumers across North America.”
Lapo Civiletti, CEO of the Ferrero Group, added: “North America will be home to our third chocolate manufacturing plant in the world. This investment strengthens our commitment to the region and will play a crucial role in meeting our global growth goals.”
As the world is fighting the current corona virus pandemic, Ferrero has not been left behind, actively contributing to supporting the communities where their offices and facilities are located.
Ferrero recently worked with the State of Illinois to host a three-day mobile free COVID testing site at its Bloomington facility.
In addition, during the pandemic, the company has made donations of PPE to local hospitals and product donations to nearby food banks.
Liked this article? Subscribe to Food Business Africa News, our regular email newsletters with the latest news insights from Africa and the World’s food and agro industry. SUBSCRIBE HERE
