The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) and Kemin Industries today announced that Kemin will expand its production facility in Verona, Mo. The 5-year expansion plan includes a more than $14 million capital investment and is expected to create 24 new jobs. The expansion will allow increased production capacity of the existing facility that manufactures meat protein used in palatants for premium and super premium pet foods.
“Kemin’s announcement today is another big win for Missouri,” said Mike Downing, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “The company’s investment in our state will create good jobs and boost our economy. We’re proud to partner with Kemin on its expansion.”
This expansion will ensure Kemin is positioned to meet increased consumer demand for pet food. Kemin has been expanding its global palatant manufacturing capacity over the past several years, opening a new state-of-the-art facility in Veronella, Italy, and in 2008, acquiring a controlling interest in a manufacturing facility in Brazil. In 2011, Kemin purchased spray drying technology and a manufacturing facility in Verona from American Dehydrated Foods. With continued success, the company will expand its Verona plant, over the next 5-years, by approximately 40,000 square-feet to accommodate increased production capacity and warehouse space for future growth.