São Paulo-headquartered McCain do Brasil Alimento, a division of McCain Foods Limited, has announced plans for expansion of its manufacturing facility in Araxá, Minas Gerais. The estimated investment of R$ 1.8 billion is its biggest historically in the region.
In recent years, the value-added frozen potato products producer has strengthened its presence in Brazil with significant investments, among them the inauguration of the Araxá plant in 2022 and the full acquisition of Forno de Minas in 2023.
The Araxá factory upgrade project includes a french fry production line and a pre-formed products line – significantly enhancing McCain’s capacity in Brazil to meet rising demand with greater local agility, ensuring continued support for regional customers, and advancing innovation through new technology.
The new production lines, which are expected to begin operations in the second half of 2027, will enhance the company’s ability to serve customers throughout Brazil, with a focus on the retail, cash & carry and foodservice channels, including the fast food restaurant segment.
“Brazil is on track to become the third-largest market for frozen french fries globally, positioning itself as a strategic priority for McCain. This investment reaffirms the importance of the market to our business and our ambition to grow in a consistent and responsible way,” said Aluizio Periquito Neto, managing director of the McCain Brazil group.
The project includes construction of storage facilities for raw potatoes, ensuring a continuous supply of quality products throughout the year. The cold storage capacity for frozen products will also be expanded.
In addition to strengthening the company’s presence in South America’s largest country and economy, McCain’s expansion will bring significant socioeconomic benefits to the region. It is estimated that more than 350 jobs will be created in Araxá, along with the involvement of over 1,000 professionals in the agricultural sector.
