US chocolate-to-caramel group Elmer Chocolate has completed a US$40m expansion of its manufacturing facility in Ponchatoula, Louisiana.
The investment, which includes new production technology, will increase efficiency and make the company more “versatile” and “competitive, Elmer said.
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The expansion adds 70,000 square feet to the producction site, bringing the Ponchatoula plant, including administrative headquarters and distribution facilities, to a total of 400,000 square feet. The move will add ten jobs to the facility’s 164-strong workforce.
“Today is an important milestone for our 160-year-old, family-owned company,” said Robert Nelson, president and CEO. “Our expansion, complete with state-of-the-art production technology, gives Elmer Chocolate a competitive edge to be the most efficient gift chocolate manufacturer in the world.”
The investment was supported by a performance-based $550,000 forgiveable loan from the state of Louisiana.
Elmer’s range, which includes chocolates, caramels, truffles and crèmes, along with seasonal specials, are available in retailers across the US, including Walmart, Bi-Lo and WinCo.
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