Nestlé is spending $150 million to expand a plant in Gaffney, South Carolina. The packaged food company opened the facility in 1980 to meet the demands of the The U.S. frozen food market. Today, the food market is rapidly growing, and Nestlé, with a large portfolio in the space, is positioning itself to capitalize. The segment was valued at $56 billion in 2021, and it is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 4.7% through 2030, according to Grand View Research.
The reason is people are looking for meal options they can easily prepare at home due to time constraints arising from work, childcare and other responsibilities. At the same time, inflation is causing consumers to eat less at restaurants, making the home a cheaper option to prepare food.
This investment “reflects our continued commitment to enhance our U.S. manufacturing footprint and in-house capabilities,” Nicole Caldwell, Nestlé USA’s Gaffney factory manager, said in a statement. “These enhancements will enable us to meet the consumer demand for the beloved brands in our frozen meals portfolio.”
Nestlé’s frozen portfolio also includes Hot Pockets, DiGiorno, Sweet Earth and its newest brand, Vital Pursuit, which targets GLP-1 consumers. The Stouffer’s and Lean Cuisine manufacturer said the money will be used to build a new production line for single-serve frozen meals and to enhance automation and digital technology. Nestlé is the latest CPG company to add to an existing facility or to announce the construction of a new, more modern plant.
JDI Industrial Services, a close partner in industrial services, looks forward to serving the Nestlé company’s expansion. Over the past three years we have performed piping, fabrication, and mechanical for their facilities, and will be serving their needs in Gaffney, SC!
“South Carolina’s strong economy and talented workforce make our state an ideal place for major companies like Nestlé USA to expand. We congratulate Nestlé USA on this $150 million investment in its Cherokee County facility, which not only reflects the company’s confidence in South Carolina but will also help strengthen our communities.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“We are proud to be a long-time partner of Nestlé USA and celebrate the company’s decades-long legacy in one of our state’s rural communities. This $150 million investment is a major victory for Cherokee County, and we look forward to Nestlé USA’s continued success in the community for many years to come.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“Nestlé USA has had a positive impact on Cherokee County for over four decades. This $150 million expansion is yet another example. On behalf of Cherokee County and the state of South Carolina, thank you Nestlé USA for this investment.” -Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee Harvey S. Peeler Jr.
“When we talk about the importance of agribusiness to South Carolina’s economy, we’re talking about companies like Nestlé USA. This food and beverage manufacturer has demonstrated its commitment to South Carolina over many decades, providing jobs and serving the public. This expansion is great news for the state.” -Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers
“We’re thrilled that Nestlé USA has chosen Cherokee County for their $150 million expansion. This decision highlights our business-friendly environment and our exceptional workforce. Nestlé USA’s continued investment is a testament to our strong community and economic potential.” -Cherokee County Council Chairman Tim Spencer
