Farmina invests US$115M in first US pet food plant in North Carolina

USA – Italian pet food manufacturer Farmina Pet Foods has officially opened its first U.S.-based manufacturing facility in Reidsville, North Carolina, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion. 

The US$115 million investment is expected to create 200 new jobs over the next five years and bring European nutrition and safety standards to the American pet food market.

The state-of-the-art 150,000-square-foot facility, Farmina’s first outside Europe, was inaugurated on June 11 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local and state officials, including State Senator Phil Berger, Reidsville Mayor Donald Gorham, and Chrissy Waggett of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture.

Strategic move to localise production

Founded over 50 years ago, Farmina has been serving North American consumers for over a decade by exporting high-quality, science-based pet nutrition products made in Europe. 

The decision to establish local manufacturing marks a strategic shift to better serve a growing U.S. market.

“Farmina’s decision to establish its U.S. operations in North Carolina is a strong endorsement of our skilled workforce and our growing reputation as a business-friendly hub for modern, innovative manufacturing,” said Senator Berger. “We’re thrilled to welcome this world-class technology to our great state.”

According to the company, 75 positions have already been filled, spanning roles such as machine operators, veterinarians, chemical technicians, maintenance personnel, and management staff. 

The project also received support from economic development agencies and state incentives, including funding from North Carolina’s Job Development Investment Grant.

European standards, local impact

Farmina’s expansion promises to do more than create jobs. The company emphasises that its production standards, based on European food safety protocols and rigorous ingredient sourcing, “adhere to and far exceed U.S. regulations.” 

They believe this will help elevate the quality of pet nutrition available in the American market.

“With our new Reidsville facility, we’re proud to bring European standards, premium ingredients, and personalised support to pet parents across the U.S.,” said Loris Rinaldi, CEO of Farmina Pet Foods North America.

“As Italians, family is at the heart of everything we do, and that includes our pets. This belief drives us to create the highest quality nutrition for our four-legged family members.”

Farmina’s product lines, including Farmina Vet Life and Natural & Delicious, are formulated to promote pet health through scientifically validated, natural ingredients. 

With its North American headquarters now based in Reidsville, the company aims to establish a stronger connection with U.S. consumers by reducing shipping times, lowering emissions, and improving responsiveness to market needs.

The company’s investment is also expected to contribute significantly to the local and state economy, generating millions of dollars in economic activity while strengthening North Carolina’s position as a centre for modern manufacturing.

“This facility represents more than just economic development; it reflects a shared vision for quality, innovation, and the well-being of pets and people,” said Kevin Berger, chairman of the Rockingham County Board of Commissioners.

Farmina’s entry into U.S. manufacturing comes amid rapid growth in the premium pet food segment, driven by increased consumer demand for high-quality, health-conscious options.

With localised production and a commitment to European excellence, the company believes it is poised to raise the bar for pet care across North America.

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