Meiji Holdings plans to invest Y10 billion ($63.4 million) to boost the production of Hello Panda biscuits at its facility in York, Pennsylvania. This expansion aims to increase output alongside the existing manufacturing of Stauffer’s-branded biscuits.
The Japanese conglomerate is strategically developing its operations in the US, with the goal of doubling sales by the 2030 fiscal year compared to the 2024 financial year. Although specific revenue figures for the US market remain undisclosed, Meiji has reported that sales of Hello Panda surged by over a third in the year leading up to January 17.
This initiative will enable Meiji to produce Hello Panda biscuits on both the East and West Coasts of the United States, enhancing operational efficiency. The York facility’s capabilities will lead to improved collaboration and flexibility with retail partners, bolstering Meiji’s position in the competitive food and beverage industry.
While exact figures were not released, Meiji indicated that the expansion would create additional job opportunities, ultimately increasing manufacturing output by 50%. Plans are also in place to upgrade aging equipment at the facility, with $55 million allocated specifically for Hello Panda production and the remainder directed toward enhancing equipment for other brands, including Stauffer’s Animal Crackers.
In a recent statement, Meiji announced that it will commence equipment installation at the York site this year, with packaging slated to start in 2027, followed by full-scale production in 2028. Additionally, in October 2024, the company shared its commitment to investing $28 million to enhance Hello Panda capacity at another production site located in Santa Ana, California.
In its latest financial report, covering the nine months ending December, Meiji recorded a modest sales increase of 0.8%, reaching Y882.33 billion. Operating profit rose by 5.4% to Y70.06 billion; however, profit attributable to shareholders saw an 11% decline, amounting to Y38.82 billion. The company’s food division reported a 1.3% increase in sales, totaling Y711.1 million, with divisional operating profit growing by 8.4% to Y53.6 billion.
For further details, you can refer to Meiji’s official statement on their expansion plans involving Hello Panda biscuits.
By strategically increasing production capacity and improving equipment, Meiji Holdings is synchronizing its operations with current food and drink consumer trends, ultimately enhancing its competitiveness in the dynamic food and beverage industry.
