Japan’s Nichirei Foods is poised to enhance its presence in the U.S. market with the establishment of a new frozen food manufacturing facility in Arkansas. This strategic move aims to expand production capacity for its subsidiary, InnovAsian Cuisine Enterprises, and aligns with current food and drink consumer trends.
Located at Craighead Technology Park—a 2,100-acre industrial hub in Jonesboro—the new plant will cover an impressive 175,000 square feet. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) announced this development on February 3, confirming that Nichirei plans to allocate $105 million to InnovAsian for the project’s initiation in 2026.
This facility is expected to create approximately 200 jobs, significantly contributing to the local economy. Notably, it will focus on increasing production capability for InnovAsian’s multi-serve entrée line, addressing the growing demand in the food and beverage industry.
Joe Kent, president and CEO of InnovAsian, remarked, “This new facility investment underscores InnovAsian’s commitment to growth and is a pivotal moment in the evolution of the brand…” He added, “This is a major step forward for Nichirei’s global growth strategy in the North American market.”
This facility will help InnovAsian meet the rising demand for high-quality Asian cuisine while providing meaningful job opportunities within the community. InnovAsian specializes in frozen Asian meals, offering a diverse range that includes multi-serve entrées, as well as rice, sides, appetizers, and single-serve items.
In 2012, Nichirei Foods, the processed foods division of Nichirei Corp., acquired InnovAsian outright for $11 million. According to Nichirei’s website, its processed foods unit comprises 21 subsidiaries and four affiliate companies, positioning it favorably within food and drink business landscapes.
By focusing on expanding their operational footprint, Nichirei fulfills pivotal food and beverage industry trends, further solidifying their role in the evolving market landscape.
