Chicago Construction News staff writer
Ferrero North America has broken ground on its new Kinder Bueno production facility in Bloomington. The company expects to add 200 jobs to its existing manufacturing footprint there with the $214.4 million investment.
Slated to open in 2024, the facility, which adds 169,000 sq. ft. to the existing manufacturing campus in Bloomington, will support North American growth of Kinder Bueno, which debuted stateside three years ago.
Ghafari Associates provided architectural and engineering design services for the bid documents. Ghafari will provide technical support and on-site construction supervision. The Austin Company is Ferrero’s design-build partner responsible for the engineering and construction of the project.
The new location, which will add 169,000 sq. ft. to Ferrero’s existing manufacturing campus in Bloomington, is slated to open in 2024.
“This investment will fuel our momentum in North America, a strategic growth area for Ferrero,” said Alanna Cotton, president and chief business officer, Ferrero North America. “Enhancing our manufacturing capabilities in the market is key to driving our innovation agenda and advancing Ferrero’s goal of becoming a world leader in snacks and confectionery”
“We’re grateful for the strong partnerships we have with state and local leaders here, and proud that our expansion is part of Bloomington’s amazing success story.”
At the new site, Ferrero will increase production of the Kinder Bueno – the first time Kinder products will be made in North America.
“Central Illinois sits in the heart of our nation, so it’s only fitting that it serves as the heart of Ferrero’s North American operations: CRUNCH, 100 Grand, Raisinets, and now Kinder Bueno, all made right here,” said Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. “This expansion is a testament to Illinois’ quality workforce and reputation on the global stage, and especially the quality workforce right here in Central Illinois. I want to thank the entire Ferrero team for their partnership. Here’s to years of success for Ferrero and economic prosperity for the entire Bloomington-Normal metro area.”
“This groundbreaking is a logical step in what has been a series of transformational investments by Ferrero in our community,” said Bloomington Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe. “Beyond providing jobs, Ferrero has been a wonderful community partner, supporting community events and organizations. We look forward to a prosperous future together.”
A chocolate processing facility is currently under construction on the company’s Bloomington campus, and in 2023 the company will open a new innovation center that will include new R&D labs and offices for its cookies, cones, and crusts brand teams in Chicago.
