RICHMOND, IND. — Ingredient supplier Anchor Ingredients officially broke ground on a new transload and ingredient processing facility in Richmond to help support the growing pet food and treat industry. The $40 million facility will enhance Anchor’s capabilities, making it a reliable source for super premium pet food ingredients, according to the company.

Headquartered in Fargo, ND, Anchor specializes in premium ingredients, serving pet food processors throughout North America. The company was founded in 2015 and has since expanded to include several ingredient processing facilities throughout the Upper Midwest, with offices in Los Angeles and Minneapolis.

According to the company, the groundbreaking represents a significant milestone in Anchor’s commitment to the pet nutrition industry. The state-of-the-art facility will feature bulk storage, warehouse space, onsite processing and quality assurance testing. Located in the Midwest Industrial Park, the facility will also expand the area’s rail infrastructure.

“We are thrilled to break ground on our new transload and ingredient processing facility in Richmond,” said Al Yablonski, co-founder and chief executive officer of Anchor Ingredients. “This facility represents a significant investment in the pet food industry and demonstrates our dedication to being a true supply chain partner and delivering high-quality ingredients that meet the demands of our customers.”

As the industry continues to expand, as does the complexities surrounding the supply chain, according to Anchor. Through the new facility, the company will be able to drive efficiency for its customers, optimizing logistics, offering onsite ingredient processing and more local distribution.

“This expansion into Richmond will continue to diversify our product and service offerings within the pet food industry and further position Anchor as the preferred supply chain partner for the world’s largest pet food brands,” Yablonski said.

The Richmond facility is anticipated to create 30 new jobs for the area. To further support the community of Richmond, Anchor plans to collaborate with local businesses and stakeholders to help advance the region’s position as a hub for the pet food and treat industry.

“We are delighted to have secured a financial vote of confidence from Anchor Ingredients,” said Dave Snow, mayor of Richmond. “Anchor's meaningful investment will provide a key element in the growth of our pet food manufacturing sector. We’ve seen significant investment in Richmond over the last six months, which are rallying points that show our current upward trajectory.”

To support Anchor’s project, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) has provided the company with up to $310,000 in incentive-based tax credits and up to $200,000 in Manufacturing Readiness Grants.

“Indiana is honored to welcome Anchor Ingredients to the state,” said Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer at the IEDC. “Anchor’s investment will not only add to our robust ecosystem of pet food manufacturers and producers but will also expand infrastructure and logistics within the area.”

Construction on the facility has already begun and is expected to be completed by June 1, 2024.

Alongside the new facility, Anchor also revealed plans to further expand its presence in the Richmond area. The company also recently partnered with North Freeze Dry, a fully integrated co-manufacturer of freeze-dried pet food products, and launched an ingredient traceability platform to help the pet nutrition industry meet growing demand for sustainability.