$156 million Mizkan America expansion breaks ground in Owensboro
OWENSBORO, Ky. (WEHT) — A major expansion in Owensboro is bringing millions in investments and dozens of new jobs to the area. Governor Andy Beshear joined Mizkan America to break ground on the project. It's a $156 million investment, and Governor Andy Beshear says the company's decision to strengthen its commitment to Kentucky landed the state in the top ten leaders of economic development last year.
Mizkan America, known for brands like Ragu and Bertolli, will soon include a 320-thousand square foot warehouse. It's located on Ragu Drive and will make room for 44 new jobs.
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Governor Beshear helped break ground on the facility. 'They're going to have more products that are here, which I think adds more security to the to the continuation of all these jobs. The expansions mean that the folks who work here have earned the faith of the management in Japan. They've shown that they're hard working and profitable,' says Governor Beshear.
Officials say 1 million pasta jars of sauce are filled at the facility every day.
The Japanese, family-owned company will also introduce the production of more vinegar-based products at the location, like cooking wine and asian sauces.
'Our founder used a by-product of sake to make vinegar which became a huge hit with sushi in japan. From these humble beginnings, Mizkan has grown to become a global food company…bringing flavor to life,' says Yuko Nakano ,the president of Mizkan Holdings.
220 years and nine generations later, Mizkan America's CEO says 50 percent of its products are made right in Owensboro.
'Owensboro, Kentucky is very, very important for business. 20 years ago, net sales surpassed $100 million.10 years ago, we [grew that] to $400 million. We finished the fiscal quarter at $1.1 billion,' says says Koichi Yuki, the CEO.
Officials say more information will be shared soon about when the facility will be fully operational.
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