InnovAsian Cuisine Enterprises, a subsidiary of Nichirei Foods, broke ground Aug. 11 on a new frozen food manufacturing facility in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The development, valued at more than $150 million, will create approximately 200 jobs.
The 180,000-square-foot facility will be located in Craighead Technology Park, a 2,100-acre industrial park in Jonesboro. InnovAsian said it chose Arkansas after a competitive multi-state search, citing speed-to-market, a skilled workforce, efficient logistics and strong local and state support as key factors.
Construction is slated for completion by the end of 2027, with production launching in early 2028.
“Today marks a significant milestone for InnovAsian and Nichirei as we invest in the future of Jonesboro, Arkansas, and strengthen our ability to meet growing consumer demand,” said Joe Kent, president and CEO of InnovAsian. “This facility will accelerate our future growth with the production of high-quality Asian cuisine while creating meaningful jobs in the community.”
InnovAsian, a subsidiary of Nichirei Foods Inc., produces Asian-inspired frozen meals, appetizers and side dishes.
State, local officials mark milestone
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver, local civic leaders, state economic development officials and InnovAsian and Nichirei Foods executive leadership.
“It’s no surprise InnovAsian chose Jonesboro, a city with everything it takes to move food from the field to the grocery store: agriculture, logistics and transportation, and advanced manufacturing, on top of a low cost of living and talented workforce,” Sanders said.
“Their parent company, Nichirei Foods, is headquartered on the other side of the world and didn’t find Arkansas by accident. That’s why we build relationships overseas, to tell our story abroad and bring more jobs home,” she added.
Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, said the investment “further solidifies the region as a food manufacturing hub.”
InnovAsian will be hiring for a range of positions at the Jonesboro facility; information available at eatinnovasian.com.