Japanese probiotics maker Yakult plans to expand its operations in the US with the opening of its first production facility in the market.

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“We are very excited about the plans announced by our headquarters, as Yakult is doing well in our initial US markets and we are looking forward to expanding our business here,” a spokesperson for Yakult USA told just-food yesterday (21 January).


The company currently markets its yoghurt-based drinks primarily on the West Coast and imports products from facilities in Mexico.


Yakult has listings with retailers in California, Nevada, Arizona and Texas. Yakult’s products are available at a number of major US grocers, including Wal-Mart and Safeway.


The Japanese-based firm plans for the new facility to begin operations in 2012. The group is yet to select a location for the manufacturing site.

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The company, which is 20% owned by Danone, is present in over 30 overseas markets and aims to increase its distribution to cover 45 countries in the medium-term.

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