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Pasta maker Barilla plans to invest nearly $170 million in a two-phase expansion in Avon, a project expected to create more than 90 jobs. The first phase is estimated at $145 million.
“This expansion marks an important step in our continued growth in the U.S. and underscores our commitment to the town of Avon,” says Fabio Pettenari, Barilla Americas vice president of supply chain. “By increasing our capacity, we’re investing not only in our business, but in the future of the community where we’ve proudly operated for years. This expansion also enables us to strengthen our North American supply chain and cut CO2 emissions by approximately 3,000 tons annually.”
The project will receive up to $2.75 million through the state’s performance-based Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit Program in exchange for a commitment to create jobs. The New York Power Authority is also considering assistance, the state says. National Grid, Rochester Gas and Electric, Livingston County and Greater Rochester Enterprise are assisting with the project as well.
The expansion will include a new, 52,000-square-foot main building for manufacturing operations with three packaging and one new production line. An additional warehouse facility will also be constructed for storage and distribution of the expanded production, officials say. The added space is expected to allow for the installation of a second line in the second phase of the project.
Barilla expects to complete the first phase by March 2028.
“Rooted in our Italian heritage, we continue to innovate and evolve to meet the needs of our U.S. customers,” says Melissa Tendick, president of Barilla Americas. “This expansion supports our ability to meet growing demand while remaining focused on what matters most—delivering high-quality pasta that consumers know and trust.”
Barilla Americas came to Livingston County in 2006 to establish a facility that opened a year later. The site created and has sustained 145 jobs, the state says. It was a big win for Greater Rochester Enterprise, one of the key players in bringing the company to the region.
“We are thrilled that Barilla chose to expand in Greater Rochester (to) continue leveraging the region’s exceptional food and beverage manufacturing expertise, workforce, and proximity to major Northeast markets without the high cost,” says Matt Hurlbutt, CEO of Greater Rochester Enterprise.
Some of Barilla’s products that are sold in the U.S. are made in Avon and a facility in Iowa.
“Through our continued investment in transformative projects with partners like Barilla, we are growing key industries across the state, creating more jobs for New Yorkers,” says Gov. Kathy Hochul. “This continued partnership will serve to highlight the region’s great agricultural assets and investment in advanced manufacturing, building on the efforts of my administration to continue to reinvigorate communities, generating economic growth across the state.”
Smriti Jacob is Rochester Beacon managing editor.
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