General Mills, a key player in the food and beverage industry, is enhancing its operations by expanding its facility in Hannibal, Missouri. This expansion will introduce a new production line specifically for Old El Paso hard-shell tacos, creating over 35 job opportunities for the local community.
Since its inception in 1972, the Hannibal facility has been instrumental in producing popular brands like Nature Valley, Betty Crocker, and Progresso, employing approximately 1,000 workers. General Mills stands out in the food and drink business, with its Old El Paso brand representing its Tex-Mex product line.
The planned expansion will involve significant upgrades to infrastructure and an increase in the facility’s overall square footage. Tim Johnson, the plant manager, emphasized the importance of the Hannibal facility by stating, “Hannibal is a key manufacturing facility for General Mills, and this latest investment will enable us to expand our footprint and grow our plant community.”
Furthermore, the new positions created through this expansion will offer wages that are “well above” the average for the county, according to the company’s announcement. This move is expected to bolster the local economy and contribute positively to Missouri’s workforce landscape.
In addition to the expansion in Hannibal, General Mills will receive support from the Missouri Works program. This initiative is designed to aid businesses in growth and workforce retention by facilitating access to capital through tax credits or withholdings for job creation. Additionally, Missouri One Start, a division of the Department of Economic Development, may assist with recruitment and training.
General Mills has been active in the market lately, highlighted by its agreement to acquire Whitebridge Pet Brands’ North American cat-food and pet-treats business for $1.45 billion. This acquisition includes two manufacturing facilities located in Joplin, Missouri, along with recognized brands such as Tiki Pets and Cloud Star, which will enhance General Mills’ portfolio in the pet food sector that already includes the well-known Blue Buffalo brand.
Recently, the company also sold its US and Canadian yogurt businesses to Lactalis and Sodiaal for $2.1 billion. These strategic moves are indicative of General Mills’ commitment to adapting to shifting food and drink consumer trends while continuing to innovate within the food and drink business landscape.
