Ajinomoto Windsor, a manufacturer of Asian and other ethnic-style frozen entrees, appetizers and snack foods, has announced plans to add a rice production line at its factory in Oakland, Mississippi, USA.
The $20 million project, which will entail a 5,000-square-foot addition to the plant and create 60 new jobs, is scheduled for completion in June. Government assistance amounting to $850,000 to finance infrastructure is coming from the Mississippi Development Authority ($600,000), the Appalachian Regional Commission ($200,000) and Yalobusha County ($50,000). The Tennessee Valley Authority is also providing assistance, details of which were not disclosed.
Sales of the company’s frozen rice, dumpling and noodle products, which reportedly have more doubled during the past five years, have made expansion necessary to keep up with demand. Once the new line is operational, annual output of 22,000 tons is expected between the Mississippi plant and a sister factory in Portland, Oregon.
“Ajinomoto Windsor is a valued member of the north Mississippi business community and an important business partner to the state. This latest expansion serves as a testament to the supportive business climate and quality workforce companies find throughout all of Mississippi,” said Phil Bryant said, the state’s governor.
The company, which employs 312 people and was formerly known as Windsor Foods, began production at the 140,000-square-foot facility in Oakland in 2007. It was originally a Mississippi Beef Processors plant.
Ajinomoto North America, Inc. (AJINA), a consolidated subsidiary of Ajinomoto Co., Inc., acquired then Houston, Texas-based Windsor Quality Holdings in 2014 for approximately $800 million. With roots dating back to 1996, Ontario, California-headquartered Ajinomoto Windsor has a broad retail and foodservice network throughout the USA. An extensive line, produced at nine plants in seven states, includes Tai Pei, Golden Tiger and Ling Ling brand Asian-style foods, José Olé and Posada Mexican fare, Bernardi Italian-style cuisine, VIP vegetables and fruits, and Fred’s appetizers.
