SPRINGDALE, Ark. (AP) — A wholesale manufacturer of frozen bakery products announced Wednesday that it will open a production facility in northwest Arkansas, creating 150 jobs.
The Arkansas Economic Development Commission and South Coast Baking Company said in a news release that the Irvine, Calif.-based company plans to open a facility in Springdale that will produce frozen cookie dough for food retailers.
The company is investing nearly $8.7 million to transform an existing 104,000 square foot building in Springdale, with operations likely to begin in July.
South Coast Baking Company produces cookie dough for Broomfield, Colo.-based Mrs. Fields, and it's a major supplier for Bentonville-based Sam's Club and St. Louis-based Panera Bread.
"South Coast Baking's decision to locate in Springdale adds to Arkansas's reputation as a hub for food manufacturers," Gov. Mike Beebe said. "The combination of our skilled workforce and a central location for product distribution continues to draw companies here."
The jobs will pay an average salary of $25 per hour, the company said.
"After carefully considering several regions to expand our California facility, Springdale proved to be a perfect fit for South Coast Baking," said Kent Hayden, CEO of South Coast Baking. "The city provides us with an opportunity to establish our roots in an economically viable and business-friendly climate. Ultimately our increased production capacity along with geographical freight efficiencies will allow us to better serve our customers."