US baked good manufacturer McKee Foods has announced a US$34m investment in expanding production at its manufacturing facility in Augusta County, Virginia.

The expansion of the plant in Stuarts Draft, aimed at producing new products while increasing efficiency and productivity, will see 54 new jobs created.

McKee produces products including Little Debbie Snacks, Drake’s Cakes and Sunbelt Bakery snacks and Cereals.

“McKee Foods has had a longstanding commitment to manufacturing in Virginia,” said Randy Smith, vice president of Stuarts Draft operations. “The business climate in the Commonwealth is very favourable, and we have found Stuarts Draft to be geographically well-positioned to serve the markets for our brands. We are proud to be here and to be expanding our production capacity.”