F O O D
P R O C E S S I N G
On the Menu:
Kansas Has the Right Ingredients
by M A R K A R E N D
T
Photo: Gett y Images
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here’s nothing cheesy about Kansas’ booming food processing industry, unless you count two recently announced cheese production facilities that will add nearly 300 new jobs to the sector. They’ll join about 103,000 others working in foodand beverage-related facilities in the state. That’s 7.4% of the workforce. Food processing accounts for more than a fifth of Kansas’ manufacturing industry, and it contributes more than $5 billion to its economy. Dairy is among the top agriculture-based commodities produced in Kansas, and the two new cheese facilities will keep that momentum on track. In May 2021, Hilmar Cheese Company announced plans to build a major production facility in Dodge City, in Southwest Kansas. The new $460 million investment will create 247 new full-time jobs, with plans for further expansion in the future. Governor Laura Kelly said the location is “perfect because of its proximity to high-quality producers and a top-notch workforce. It’s great to see another major food manufacturer recognizing the benefits of locating in Kansas.” Hilmar Cheese Company is one of the
KANSAS: TO THE STARS
world’s largest producers of high-quality cheese and whey products and is the latest prominent food manufacturer in a long line of such companies investing in Kansas since January 2019, along with Schwan’s Company, Pretzels LLC, Empirical Foods and others. “Dodge City gives us many opportunities including a local and skilled labor force, a supportive and expanding agricultural region, and an excellent transportation network that allows us to easily reach our expanding markets,” said CEO and President of Hilmar Cheese Company David Ahlem. “We’re really happy with our decision and excited about becoming a part of this outstanding community.” MILK SUPPLY IS A LOCATION FACTOR In June, Kansas Dairy Ingredients (KDI) Cheese Company said it will expand its operations in Southwest Kansas, too, creating 40 new jobs and investing $45 million in Hugoton. The facility will produce Americanstyle, Italian-style, Hispanic-style Cheese and European-style cheese and butter. “Kansas Dairy Ingredients is a great asset
