Les Aliments Dainty Foods, a Canadian producer of private-label rice and ready-to-heat meal solutions, has shared plans to open its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Batavia Township, Ohio, committing up to $150 million over five years and creating about 240 jobs.
An initial $85 million investment will fund Phase One of the 250,000-square-foot facility, with production set to launch in the first quarter of 2027.
At full buildout, the plant is expected to produce up to 250 million units annually, manufacturing retort pouches and expanding into cups and bowls to meet growing U.S. demand for convenient meal solutions. The project is expected to generate about $15.8 million in new annual payroll for the Batavia Township area.
CEO James Maitland said the Batavia site was selected for its logistical and economic advantages.
“Establishing Dainty USA LLC strengthens our presence in the U.S. market, increases production capacity with world-class automation, and brings innovative, convenient meal solutions closer to American consumers,” Maitland said.
“The site was chosen for its Midwest supply chain strength, workforce, infrastructure, and business-friendly environment. We are proud to invest in the Batavia community, and excited to offer U.S.-produced goods. We look forward to building a strong, long-term partnership in the region.”
The facility is designed with distribution efficiency in mind, featuring a rail spur, 3 inbound loading bays for raw materials and 6 outbound bays for finished goods. Renovation and facility development began in early March, with hiring expected to follow as operations ramp up.
About Dainty Foods
Dainty Foods has sourced rice globally for more than 140 years in Canada and supplies private-label microwaveable rice and meal pouches to grocery and convenience retailers across North America. The company is a subsidiary of Marbour Group, a France-headquartered private company focused on private-label rice and rice-based products. Dainty USA LLC is partnering with state and local government agencies on grant support for the project.
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