Ferrero to build its first North American chocolate production centre

Ferrero North America has announced that it will build a chocolate production centre in North America, with plans to invest $75 million in the project.

The chocolate manufacturing centre – Ferrero’s first in North America – will be an expansion of the company’s facility in Bloomington, Illinois, adding 70,000 square feet to the plant’s current footprint.

Ferrero expects to start construction work on the project by spring 2021. The expansion is anticipated to create approximately 50 local jobs.

The centre will produce chocolate for products such as Ferrero Rocher, Crunch, 100Grand and Goobers that are made in North America.

Ferrero has been investing to expand its footprint and capabilities in North America. Over the last 18 months, this has included opening new distribution centres in Georgia, Arizona and Pennsylvania and expanding its North American headquarters in New Jersey.

“We are…delighted to announce that construction will begin on Ferrero’s first chocolate manufacturing centre in North America – a key strategic market for us,” said Giovanni Ferrero, executive chairman of the Ferrero Group.

“This investment represents an important milestone as we continue to expand our offering of high-quality products for consumers across North America.”

Lapo Civiletti, CEO of the Ferrero Group, added: “North America will be home to our third chocolate manufacturing plant in the world. This investment strengthens our commitment to the region and will play a crucial role in meeting our global growth goals.”