The investment has been made to meet growing foodservice and retail customer demand for high quality bacon products. The expansion includes additional bacon processing and slicing capacities, bacon equipment upgrades and new state-of-the-art slicing equipment.
This project will also result in 25 new job opportunities at the Ottumwa fresh pork and bacon facility.
“Today’s announcement demonstrates our continued commitment to the Ottumwa community and reinforces our strategy to grow our business through key customer partnerships,” said Tom Lopez, president of Plumrose USA. “This significant investment will create more opportunities for local producers, strengthen our leading portfolio of high quality, value-added pork products, and support the growth aspirations of key customers.”
The facility upgrades to improve operational efficiencies and enhance product quality are expected to be completed by September 2019.
The Ottumwa facility, built in 1976, produces more than one billion pounds of fresh pork and bacon products per year, partners with more 1,000 local family farmers and employs more than 2,000 team members.
JBS’ Friboi unit recently reported a 33% increase in domestic sales which was attributed to a rise in demand for gourmet meats in Brazil’s retail outlets.
