MADISON, WIS. — Nestlé Purina PetCare is laying the groundwork for an expansion of its wet pet food manufacturing facility in Jefferson, Wis., according to an announcement from Governor Tony Evers on April 25. The company has invested $195 million to increase the site’s production capacity by almost 50%.

The expansion will add 35,000 square feet to the existing plant, which has been operating in Jefferson since 1910, according to Evers.

“We are thrilled that Nestlé Purina is moving forward with expanding its Jefferson facility and that we could be a partner in helping support this effort, which will bring roughly 100 new jobs to the community,” Evers said. “Nestlé Purina has a more than 100-year history in our state, and we are excited to celebrate this world-class brand’s commitment to seeing many more years of continued success and local economic development in Wisconsin.”

Purina produces its Pro Plan, Fancy Feast and Beneful Incredibites in Jefferson. The facility currently employs more than 250 people in the area.

“The expansion of Nestlé Purina’s facility is a testament to the strong relationship between our city and the business community,” added Jefferson Mayor Dale Oppermann. “We applaud Nestlé Purina for its continued investment in Jefferson, which will enhance our economic vitality and create a more promising future for all who call our city home.”

According to Purina, the Jefferson expansion is part of the company’s overarching strategy to fortify its manufacturing footprint. The company recently cut the ribbon at a pet food facility expansion in Eden, NC, and expects to complete a greenfield plant in Ohio within the next 12 months.

The company expects to spend $2 billion on capital expansion projects between 2020 and 2025.

“Investing in our Jefferson factory deepens our roots in the community while helping us provide pet owners across the northern part of the United States with the trusted, science-based pet foods their dogs and cats love,” said Nolan Terry, chief technical officer for Purina. “We remain focused on safety, quality and sustainability in our operations and appreciate the state and local partners who have supported our continued growth.”

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) has approved up to $1.7 million in tax credits for the company for the next five years, and the City of Jefferson is prepared to provide up to $2 million in financial assistance over the next 20 years to assist with project costs.

“Nestlé Purina is an iconic global brand whose continued investment in Wisconsin underscores our state’s ability to compete on the world stage,” said Missy Hughes, secretary and chief executive officer of the WEDC. “This is a huge win for our state and for the people of Jefferson and surrounding communities.”

Find more articles related to pet food and supplier facilities.