General Mills’ former Blue Buffalo plant has a new owner
New Jersey pet food manufacturer United Premium Foods (UPF) will start operating in the factory in the coming weeks.
After 2 years of producing treats for the Blue Buffalo brand, General Mills decided to close its plant in Iowa at the beginning of October following a decreasing demand for pet treats.
According to local media, pet food manufacturer United Premium Foods (UPF) will be the plant’s new owner starting 1 December.
The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) estimates that the new company is expected to create “hundreds of jobs” with a capital investment of $15 million (€13.8M).
“We’re thrilled it’s [the plant] getting a new lease on life with the jobs and investment. It’s a win-win,” says an IEDA spokesperson to local media.
UPF is headquartered in Woodbridge, produces raw and cooked premium pet food, and has a state-of-the-art facility in New Jersey. The company recently announced an investment of $1.8 million ($1.64M) in new systems and equipment to support customer growth.