Nestlé Purina PetCare celebrates the grand opening of its cutting-edge pet food factory in Eden, North Carolina, marking a significant milestone in the company's expansion efforts. The 1.3-million-square-foot facility, established with an investment exceeding $450 million, breathes new life into a former brewery, setting the stage for what Purina dubs as the 'factory of the future.'
"We're thrilled to establish our first manufacturing presence in North Carolina with the inauguration of our Eden factory," remarked Nina Leigh Krueger, CEO of Purina. "This facility underscores our commitment to meeting the increasing demand for our products across the eastern and southeastern regions of the United States. With the support of our partners and the dedication of our team, we're confident in the positive impact this factory will have for years to come."
The Eden factory has already generated over 300 employment opportunities, with plans for further expansion. Nestlé's ongoing commitment to Purina's manufacturing network includes a $2 billion investment in factory and capital projects between 2020 and 2025, with a new facility currently underway in Williamsburg Township, Ohio.
Governor Roy Cooper praised the collaboration behind the factory's realization, emphasizing North Carolina's welcoming environment for new manufacturing endeavors. The event also featured remarks from State Senator Phil Berger and key Purina executives, highlighting the facility's role in shaping the future of manufacturing.
The state-of-the-art Eden facility boasts modern technologies such as a vertical dryer, a first for Purina in the U.S., and automated systems for enhanced efficiency. Additionally, it features a unique Manufacturing Experience Center aimed at educating future generations about modern manufacturing practices.
Reflecting Purina's commitment to sustainability, the Eden factory will operate as a zero-waste facility, with efforts across Purina's manufacturing network focused on water conservation and achieving 100% renewable electricity by 2025.
As part of its community engagement, Purina announced donations to local organizations, including Rockingham Community College and the Dan River Basin Association, supporting workforce development and nature conservation initiatives, respectively. These contributions align with Purina's broader mission to foster thriving communities and strengthen the human-animal bond.
