JACKSON, Ohio — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted joined Bellisio Foods, Inc., JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, and the Jackson County Economic Development Partnership to announce that nearly 200 new jobs are coming to Jackson County.
Bellisio Foods, the nation's third-largest producer of single-serve frozen entrees, will invest $40 million to expand its production facility in Jackson and create 177 new jobs.
"Southeast Ohio has a lot to offer, and Bellisio recognizes that," said DeWine. "The Jackson site is already the company's largest manufacturing plant, and we're thrilled that the company will stay here and continue to grow."
Bellisio Foods, which is owned by parent company CP Foods, produces frozen meals such as Michelina's, Boston Market, White Castle, Canyon Kitchen and Authentic Asia. The Jackson facility currently employs well over 1,000 people and produces more than 2 million meals a day. The new investment will allow for building upgrades to the production facilities, new equipment, building rehabilitation for a new daycare center, and the creation of an on-site counseling center.
"Our ongoing growth at Bellisio Foods, and the vision of CP Foods, reflects a long-standing commitment to innovative, high-quality food guided by dedicated, talented employees," said Bellisio CEO Jeff Tuttle.
"Our operations in Jackson are a flagship facility for CP Foods North America," said Nien Duong, senior vice president, manufacturing at Bellisio Foods. "From single-serve entrees to pizza rolls and baked snacks, our employees demonstrate the know-how and determination to deliver quality products and great service."
State support for the expansion project includes a job creation tax credit from the Ohio Department of Development. JobsOhio plans to provide assistance for the project, which will be made public after a final agreement is executed.
JobsOhio will enlist its Talent Acquisition Services program to support the company's overall talent strategy. The services will be tailored to the company's needs, including elements such as attraction, engagement, selection, and sourcing of candidates, as well as training.
"Hardworking and talented Ohioans are the fuel behind Bellisio Foods' largest production facility, and JobsOhio talent acquisition services will support the creation of 177 new jobs in Jackson County," said J.P. Nauseef, JobsOhio president and CEO. "Bellisio Foods is using its growth as a springboard to create new programs and services that will spur growth and provide meaningful benefits to all employees, enhancing their way of life and helping them to live their version of the American Dream here in Ohio."